It’s estimated that more than 150,000 people across Western New York provide some kind of care for a person with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. These selfless and sometimes overwhelmed care partners have an ally in the Alzheimer’s Association Western New York Chapter and a tremendous resource in the annual Dementia Care Symposium.
The all-day education conference on April 21 will include a keynote speech addressing the state of Alzheimer’s research. Beth Kallmyer, MSW, is the Vice President of Constituent Services for the Alzheimer’s Association, based in Chicago. Her presentation will review the latest research and practice interventions including treatments and health living strategies.
A second keynote will be delivered by Connecticut-based Maureen Matthews, PhD, RN, a renowned psychotherapist and dementia expert who will discuss improving quality of life for those with cognitive impairment.
Afternoon workshops presented by local experts will focus on the unique challenges facing family care partners, including financial and behavioral issues, and offer advice on overcoming them. Professional health care providers will strengthen or refresh their skills, and earn Continuing Education Credits for specific disciplines. And, a special program will also be offered for those with a diagnosis of early stage dementia.
“This symposium is an excellent way for professionals and families to not only learn techniques for caregiving, but how to work together as a care team and make sure they are mindful of their own health,” says Julia Szprygada, the Chapter’s education director who is organizing the conference. ”There is pertinent information for anyone involved in dementia care, regardless of your role or the stage of the disease.”
The conference will convene at the Millennium Hotel at 2040 Walden Ave. in Cheektowaga at 8 a.m. Continental breakfast and a full lunch are included, along with pertinent materials and access to local vendors. The day will conclude by 4 p.m. A respite service will also be available for caregivers who cannot leave a loved one unattended. To make arrangements for the service, caregivers should call 1-800-272-3900 no later than April 11.
Registration for symposium can be completed online at alz.org/WNY or by phone during regular business hours at 1-800-272-3900. Early bird discounts are available until April 7.