Pasco Reporter

U.S. Congressman Gus Bilirakis will be hosting his annual senior forums for residents of Florida’s 12th Congressional District. The forums aim to provide useful information and resources to assist seniors in various aspects of their lives. Congressman Bilirakis will also give a legislative update on his efforts to support seniors, including the preservation of crucial programs like Medicare and Social Security.

One of the key topics that will be covered in the forums is the issue of scams targeting seniors, particularly those that utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI). Damien Kraebel from the United States Postal Inspection Service will provide a presentation on the newest scams, while Anna Burns, the Southeast Regional Director of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), will discuss the latest scams using AI. Timothy Strachan from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Lisa Schifferle from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) will also give presentations on reporting and preventing senior scams.

In addition to scams, the forums will also focus on breakthrough research in diseases that impact seniors. Elisabeth Burnett, MSN, FNP-C, CRRN at the University of South Florida (USF), will present new research on Alzheimer's disease. Gary Leblanc will provide information on Alzheimer's support services. Dr. Robert Hauser from USF's Parkinson's Disease & Movement Disorders Center will discuss the latest research on Parkinson's disease. Dr. Elsa Flores will present new cancer research and an expansion project at Moffitt Cancer Center.

Various resources available to seniors will be highlighted during the forums. Ann Marie Winter from the Area Agency on Aging will discuss services for seniors through the HELP Line. Caren Castle from MidFlorida Community Services, Jeff McKittrick from Pasco County Community Development, and Brian Hoben from Pasco County Social Services will provide information on services available to seniors in their respective areas. Cheryl Pollock from Premier Health Care will discuss healthcare resources for seniors, and Geralyn Fortney from SHINE will provide an overview of Medicare options for seniors. Debbie Jones and Romona Sutton from the VA will present on the VDC Program, and Tommy Robison from Pasco Veteran Services will discuss the benefits and resources available through the PACT Act. Mike Wells, the Property Tax Appraiser, will provide information on the new Elderly Tax Exemption in Pasco. Additionally, Greg Laskoski will give a presentation on Diabetes & Driving Awareness.

Both forums will conclude with a question and answer session, allowing attendees to engage with the speakers and address any concerns or inquiries they may have.

The first senior forum will take place on February 22, 2024, at the St. Leo University Wellness Center in San Antonio, FL. The second forum will be held on February 27, 2024, at the Plantation Inn in Crystal River, FL. Residents of Florida’s 12th Congressional District are invited to attend either forum, with RSVPs requested by calling 727-232-2921.

These events are open to the press, providing an opportunity for the media to cover the forums and disseminate the valuable information being shared with the community.

By hosting these senior forums, Congressman Bilirakis demonstrates his commitment to supporting and empowering the senior population in his district. The forums serve as a platform to educate seniors on important issues, provide access to resources, and create a space for dialogue and engagement.