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GSA 2026GSA 2026
  • Home
  • Registration
  • Submissions
    • 2026 Speaker Information
  • Travel
  • Program
  • Exhibits & Sponsorship
  • Experience National Harbor

Event FAQs

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  • GSA 2026 Event FAQs

Find Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about GSA 2026 by checking our our Event FAQs. 

GSA 2026 | Frequently Asked Questions

We have compiled information outlining services to assist with accessibility needs, please visit the Accessibility webpage for more information.

An all-gender restroom is available on the Convention Level near Registration. A family restroom is also available on the National Harbor Level, next to National Harbor 9.

Badge printing and on-site registration will be located in the Convention Center Pre-Function Foyer, on the Ballroom Level of the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center. On Monday, November 2, attendees will receive an email containing a QR code that can be scanned at the counters for quick check-in and badge printing. Attendees who do not have their QR code can also look up their registration using their email address or GSA ID.


Meeting badges must be worn at all times to access meeting rooms and the exhibit hall. Exhibit-only badges are required for all booth staff working in the exhibit hall.


Lanyards will be provided, and ribbons will be available for pick-up in the registration area.

GSA will offer complimentary self-service coat racks in the Potomac and Maryland Ballroom Foyers at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center.


Please note that these coat racks are unattended, and guests are responsible for their personal belongings.

Please visit the COVID-19 webpage for GSA's safety recommendations related to COVID-19.

For medical or security emergencies, contact Gaylord National Safety Services at (301) 965-4500 or dial 333 from any hotel phone.


Gaylord National maintains 24/7 on-property Safety Services personnel trained in first aid, CPR, and AED response.


If an alarm or evacuation is announced, listen carefully to the hotel’s public address instructions and follow posted emergency exit routes. In the event of a fire, do not use elevators.

The family lounge is located on the Ballroom level of the Gaylord Convention Center in the National Harbor Meeting Room 1. This lounge is available for all attendees with children to use during GSA session hours. All children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Please visit the Family Care webpage for additional information.


A private Nursing Room will be available in Mezzanine Room 6 at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center. The room is located on the upper level of the convention center and can be accessed via the elevator banks near the Maryland Ballroom and Woodrow Wilson Ballroom.


This room is for nursing parents only and will be secured with key access; keys may be obtained at the Information Desk, which is located on the Ballroom Level in the Convention Center Pre-Function Foyer. Comfortable seating and a private, quiet space will be provided. Please note that refrigeration is not available.


Babysitting Services: GSA does not provide direct babysitting services; however, a list of local childcare providers is available on our Family Care webpage for attendees to explore.


Gaylord National maintains 24/7 on-property Safety Services staff trained in basic first aid, CPR, and AED use. For medical assistance, contact Gaylord National Safety Services at 301-965-4500 or dial 333 from any hotel phone.


Basic first aid supplies, including Band-Aids, will also be available at the GSA Information Desk, located on the Ballroom level, Convention Center Pre-Function Lobby.

Stay Hydrated! 
Refillable water stations are available just outside the Exhibit Hall and throughout the Gaylord property. Bring your own water bottle to refill throughout the day, or use the paper cups provided at the stations.


Complimentary Snacks in the Exhibit Hall
Light snacks will be available Thursday through Saturday from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM in the Exhibit Hall.


Looking for more dining options? 
The Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center offers several on-site dining options, including Old Hickory Steakhouse, Harbor Social, Potomac District Café & Market, and Belvedere Lobby Bar. Additional restaurants within walking distance in National Harbor include Succotash, The Walrus Oyster & Ale House, Rosa Mexicano, and Fogo de Chão.


For a full guide to dining options throughout National Harbor, explore the National Harbor Dine & Drink Guide.


Please Note: Meals are not included with registration.

Your GSA ID is the unique “Customer #” found in your dashboard at www.gsa2026.org. All individuals registered for the meeting— regardless of membership status—will have a GSA ID.




You’ll use your GSA ID to log in to the GSA 2026 Program Website and Mobile App, where you can view session details, build your personalized schedule, and access attendee-only features.



To make access easy:

  • Your GSA ID will be included in communications when the Program Website opens on September 15.
  • It will also be printed on the back of your GSA 2026 badge for easy onsite access.


If you’re unsure of your GSA ID, log in to your account at www.gsa2026.org or contact the GSA Meetings Team for assistance.

Lost and found is located at the Registration and Customer Service counters on the Ballroom Level, in the Convention Center Pre-Function Lobby. Visit this area to claim or turn in lost items.

GSA is furthering its commitment to meaningful aging by offering various health & wellness activities throughout the conference.



  • Pickleball Free Play: Join us in the Exhibit Hall on Thursday and Friday, November 5–6, from 11:30 AM–3:00 PM, and Saturday, November 7, from 1:30 PM–3:00 PM. Equipment will be provided, and a professional pickleball coach will be on hand to teach the basics or help you sharpen your skills. Just wear appropriate shoes and come ready to play!
  • Tai Chi: Take a break and get centered with a Tai Chi demonstration in the Exhibit Hall on Thursday, November 5, from 12:00 PM–1:00 PM. This free session offers an opportunity to explore movement as a meditative practice.
  • Chair Yoga: Reset and recharge with a Chair Yoga Break in the Exhibit Hall on Friday, November 6, from 12:00 PM–1:00 PM. No experience or equipment is needed—chairs will be provided for this free, relaxing stretch.
  • GSA Fun-Run/Walk: Runners, joggers, and walkers of all skill levels are invited to join us Saturday, November 7, from 7:00 AM–8:00 AM for a fun-filled morning in National Harbor. Participants will meet in the hotel registration lobby before heading out together. This non-timed event is all about movement, health, and having fun. Registration is required; the cost is $25, with proceeds benefiting The Doris Schwartz Gerontological Nursing Research Award.*
  • Pickleball Doubles Tournament: GSA's Pickleball Doubles Tournament returns Saturday, November 7, from 11:30 AM–1:30 PM. Come with a partner or we'll assign you one, and bring your own paddle or use one provided onsite. Registration is required; the cost is $45 and participation is available on a first-come, first-served basis.*
  • Salsa Dance Class: Add a little rhythm to your conference experience on Saturday, November 7, from 12:00 PM–1:00 PM with a free salsa class in the Exhibit Hall. Beginners and experienced dancers are welcome, and no partner is required.


All activities denoted with an (*) require registration, please visit the Health & Wellness Program webpage for more information.


The GSA 2026 Annual Scientific Meeting is all under one roof at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland. Meeting sessions, special events, receptions, and the exhibit hall will all take place at the resort, making it easy to stay close to all conference activities.


GSA-negotiated hotel rates at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center are available on a first-come, first-served basis through September 23, 2026, or until the room block sells out. We encourage attendees to reserve early to secure their room within the official GSA hotel block.


For assistance with your hotel reservation, please email gsahotels@expovision.com.

The Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center offers complimentary luggage storage for hotel guests who arrive before their room is available or need to store luggage after check-out.


Standard hotel times are:

  • Check-In: 4:00 PM
  • Check-Out: 11:00 AM


Guests are encouraged to check their luggage with the hotel while attending meeting activities before check-in or after check-out.

The GSA 2026 mobile app will be available October 28, 2026, for smartphones and tablets. Attendees can view the latest schedule, exhibitor and sponsor information, and meeting-space maps. For the best experience, use iOS 18 or later or Android 14 or later, update your device’s operating system before the meeting, and connect to stable internet for updates and syncing.


To use the conference app, Android devices must be running Android 14 or later, and iPhones or iPads must be running iOS 18 or later. You can find more information about device compatibility here.

Parking is available at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, as well as several nearby garages and lots throughout National Harbor. Attendees are encouraged to review rates and consider pre-booking parking at nearby National Harbor facilities when available.

Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center Parking

201 Waterfront Street
National Harbor, MD 20745

Self-Parking

  • 0–1 hour: $25
  • 1–3 hours: $44
  • 3+ hours: $50

Valet Parking

  • 0–2 hours: $48
  • 2–24 hours: $75

St. George Garage

251 Mariner Passage
Oxon Hill, MD 20745

  • 0–1.5 hours: $5
  • 1.5–3 hours: $15
  • 3–4.5 hours: $20
  • 4.5–24 hours: $25

Pre-book parking

Mariner Garage

164 Mariner Passage
Oxon Hill, MD 20745

  • 0–1.5 hours: $5
  • 1.5–3 hours: $15
  • 3–4.5 hours: $20
  • 4.5–24 hours: $25

Pre-book parking

Fleet Garage

150 Potomac Passage
Oxon Hill, MD 20745
Approximately 0.3 miles from the Gaylord

  • 0–1.5 hours: $5
  • 1.5–3 hours: $15
  • 3–4.5 hours: $20
  • 4.5–24 hours: $25

Pre-book parking

Plateau Lot – Outdoor Parking

29B Waterfront Street
Oxon Hill, MD 20745
Approximately 0.1 miles from the Gaylord

  • 0–1.5 hours: $5 + fees
  • 1.5–3 hours: $15 + fees
  • 3–4.5 hours: $20 + fees
  • 4.5–24 hours: $25 + fees

Pre-book parking

Parking availability and rates are subject to change. Attendees should confirm current rates when parking or making an advance reservation.

Location: Exhibit Hall C–D, Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, Lower Level


Opening Session

Wednesday, November 4
🕑 6:00 PM – 7:15 PM


Daily Sessions

Thursday, November 5 – Saturday, November 7
🕑 2:00 PM – 3:15 PM


Poster Presenter Setup Timing

On Wednesday, November 4, presenters may begin setting up their posters at 5:30 PM, when the Exhibit Hall opens. On Thursday, November 5 through Saturday, November 7, presenters may begin setup at 11:30 AM on the day of their scheduled session.

FedEx Office at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center
Located onsite at the Gaylord National, the FedEx Office provides a full range of business services for attendees, including:

  • High-speed digital copying
  • Large-format poster printing
  • Shipping & receiving
  • Fax and standard printing services


Poster Printing:
You may email your poster files to the FedEx Office in advance. They can print your poster and have it ready for pick-up upon your arrival.

Location & Contact

Address: 201 Waterfront Street, Oxon Hill, MD 20745
Phone: 301-567-0457
Email: usa5629@fedex.com
Website: FedEx Office – Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center


🕑 Service Hours

  • Weekdays: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Saturday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Sunday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Symposium

A Symposium brings together several related presentations that are submitted and organized as a group around a common topic. Each symposium has a Chair and may also include co-chairs or discussants who help guide the conversation and provide additional perspective.

  • Length: 90 minutes
  • Format: Podium presentations with prepared slides


Paper Session

Paper Sessions feature individual abstracts that GSA groups together based on a shared topic or area of research. Presenters give a short podium presentation using prepared slides, followed by opportunities for discussion.

  • Length: 90 minutes
  • Format: Podium presentations with prepared slides


Poster Session

Poster Sessions provide an opportunity to explore research in a more informal, one-on-one setting. Individual abstracts are grouped by topic, and presenters display their research on posters while discussing their work and answering questions from attendees.

  • Length: 75 minutes
  • Format: Poster display and discussion
  • Location: Exhibit Hall One Poster Session is scheduled each day of the Exhibit Hall.


Flash Poster Session

Flash Poster Sessions combine brief podium presentations with traditional poster discussions. Ten presenters each give a five-minute overview of their research before attendees have time to visit the posters, speak with presenters, and explore the research in greater detail.

  • Length: 90 minutes
  • Format: Five-minute podium presentations followed by approximately 40 minutes of poster viewing and discussion
  • Flash Poster Sessions are organized in collaboration with participating GSA Sections, including BSS, AGHE, HS, and SRPP.

Cancellation requests received by October 11, 2026, will be refunded minus a $25 nonrefundable cancellation fee. After October 11, 2026, no refunds will be issued for any reason (e.g., COVID-19, illness, etc.). Refund requests for the cancellation fee will not be considered regardless of the registration category, amount paid, or when requested. GSA registration is non-transferrable. No-shows to the GSA 2026 meeting will not be refunded regardless of the reason, including conflicts that arise with a registrant's schedule, (e.g., late arrivals or early departures) does not constitute a reason for a full or partial refund. A submitted online registration serves as acknowledgment, acceptance, and agreement of this cancellation policy. All cancellation requests will be processed within 15 business days of receipt and back on the original form of payment.

Location:
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center—Convention Center Pre-Function Foyer, Ballroom Level.

Self Check-In

All attendees will check in at self-service counters to print their badges. On Monday, November 2, attendees will receive an email containing a QR code for easy scanning and badge printing onsite.


No QR Code? No Problem.
Badges can also be printed using your email address or GSA ID at the kiosks.

Registration & Customer Service Counter


A staffed Registration and Customer Service counter will be available onsite for:

  • Annual meeting registration
  • Membership services and renewals
  • Access to the satellite GSA Store, featuring official GSA merchandise

🕑 Registration Hours

Day Hours
Tuesday, November 3 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday, November 4 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Thursday, November 5 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday, November 6 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday, November 7 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Build Your Personal Schedule

Before the conference, be sure to explore the daily schedule online to see the most up-to-date list of sessions and events.


To add items to your personal calendar:

  1. Click the star icon next to any session to favorite it.
  2. Navigate to your My Schedule page.
  3. Use the Export button (top right corner) to add your favorited events to your personal calendar.

We encourage you to share your GSA Annual Scientific Meeting experience on social media!
Please follow GSA’s Social Media Guidelines and observe standard etiquette when posting.


✅ What You Can Do

  • Engage in conversation with fellow attendees
  • Provide feedback by tagging us: @geronsociety
  • Communicate respectfully, embracing diversity and differing viewpoints
  • Offer constructive feedback and listen actively
  • Use the official hashtag: #GSA2026


❌ What You Shouldn’t Do

  • Do not use cameras or recording devices in sessions—
    photography and recording are strictly prohibited during all presentations.


Thank you for helping us maintain a respectful and professional environment!

AgeTech

AgeTech: Life Span Innovations & Implications brings together researchers, care innovators, designers, and technology developers to explore how emerging technologies are changing the experience of aging. Sessions examine topics ranging from artificial intelligence and digital health to assistive technologies and other innovations designed to support people across the life course.


Award Presentations

GSA’s Award Presentations recognize individuals who have made outstanding contributions to gerontology through research, teaching, service, leadership, and innovation. These sessions provide an opportunity to celebrate award recipients while learning more about their work and its impact on the field.


Global Focus Series

The Global Focus Series highlights internationally focused research and perspectives on aging. Sessions explore gerontology across countries, cultures, and communities and include programming from GSA groups with a particular interest in international issues.


Industry-Supported Symposia

Industry-Supported Symposia are educational sessions developed and supported by outside organizations. These sessions complement the Annual Scientific Meeting program by providing additional opportunities to learn about research, emerging topics, products, services, or developments relevant to the field of aging.


Journal Series

The Journal Series highlights research and scholarship published in GSA’s journals. Sessions feature selected articles, emerging areas of research, and insights from journal editors, providing attendees with an opportunity to learn more about current developments in gerontology and opportunities for publishing their own work.


Momentum Discussions

Momentum Discussions are highly interactive sessions focused on timely issues, emerging research, and innovative approaches in aging. Unlike traditional presentation sessions, these programs are designed to encourage conversation and audience participation, giving attendees an opportunity to exchange ideas and explore potential solutions together.


Policy Series

The Policy Series examines the connection between aging research and public policy. Sessions bring together researchers, policy experts, advocates, and government perspectives to explore current policy challenges and how evidence can be translated into meaningful action.


Presidential Symposia

Presidential Symposia are specially curated sessions developed by the GSA President and Program Chairs around key themes of the Annual Scientific Meeting. These sessions bring together leading perspectives on important issues in gerontology and often encourage broader discussion about their implications for research, practice, education, and policy.

Want to build your own schedule? Just click the star icon on any event or session to mark it as a favorite. All your starred events will be collected under My Schedule, where you can quickly review and organize the sessions you don’t want to miss—whether you’re using the online program or the mobile app.

Complimentary Wi-Fi Access—Provided by Eli Lilly


Free Wi-Fi will be available throughout the Exhibit Hall and session rooms at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, courtesy of our sponsor, Eli Lilly.


Look for signage around the Exhibit Hall and registration area for additional access details.


Wi-Fi Login Details

  • Network: EliLilly2026
  • Password: 150years

Contact Us

For questions that were not answered by our general FAQs, please contact us at meetings@geron.org. 

Email Us

We can't wait to see you in National Harbor!

#GSA2026

 
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Gerontological Society of America
1101 14th Street NW, Suite 1220
Washington, DC 20005
United States
Phone: (202) 842-1275
Email: membership@geron.org

© Gerontological Society of America 2024 and all prior years. All rights reserved.

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