Program

We have created an exciting two-day program full of educational and practical sessions. Attend only those you wish - all are welcome. Scroll down to learn more.

Access the Program Book

View the conference program book to see a schedule for both days, a list of sponsors, and the zoom link to access the conference.

Access the Program

Friday, February 3, 2023: Programs for Individuals Living with Dementia

Opening Remarks & Keynote, Living Well: Panel of Individuals Living with Dementia

Friday, 2/3 | 9:30 - 11:00 AM ET

This session will highlight what it is like to live with Alzheimer's disease and other dementia. Panelists will discuss coping with a diagnosis and combating the stigma associated with the disease. They will also talk about the importance of disease education, social engagement, and having a voice in your own care. Presented by Meghan Lemay, MS, and Panelists.

Living Well with Cognitive Challenges: Tips and Strategies

Friday, 2/3 | 11:15 AM - 12:15 PM

Establishing a more simplified routine and schedule can be helpful and affect one’s well-being. This session will review cognitive strategies to help manage common difficulties encountered in daily life; to improve feelings of well-being and self-reliance. Specifically how to develop a person-centered roadmap to optimize meaning, structure and appropriate levels of stimulation. Presented by Julie Brody Magid, PysD.

Manejo de las visitas al hospital y salas de emergencia

Friday, 2/3 | 12:00 - 1:00 PM

(Special Caregiver Session in Spanish) Puede ser difícil manejar las visitas al hospital y las salas de emergencia para un ser querido con demencia. En esta charla recibirá sugerencias prácticas y consejo profesional sobre cómo manejar estas situaciones. Algunos de los temas incluyen:Orientación sobre qué llevar a la sala de emergencia; consejos prácticos sobre cómo interactuar con el personal hospitalario; información sobre formas médicas que se pueden completar con anticipación. Presentado por el Dr. Juan Carlos Urizar.

Expressive Therapy: A Little Known Formula for Easing Stress and Anxiety

Friday, 2/3 | 12:45 - 1:45 PM

Many people with dementia experience symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression. Much research has shown that creative expression is a powerful tool for well being. Recent studies have shown that the deep activation of the brain systems that occur during the creative process reduces stress and increases psychological resilience. Expressive Therapy is a non-pharmacological approach that helps boost cognitive function, enhance communication and increases neural plasticity. Participating in creative arts also creates opportunities for people with dementia to use non-verbal expression and offers a sense of accomplishment and purpose. What is not to like? Please join us to learn more about Expressive Therapy and how you might utilize some of these approaches on your own. Presented by Silvina Ibanez, MA.

Saturday, February 4, 2023: Programs for Family Caregivers

Opening Remarks & Keynote: Caregiver Conversations: Journey of Hope, Panel of Caregivers

Saturday, 2/4 | 9:30 - 11:00 AM

Caring for someone with dementia is an important, yet complex role. Caregivers may provide help with personal care, paying bills and coordinating medical care while also providing emotional support for the person living with dementia and the extended family. Join us for a panel discussion with caregivers as they share tips, strategies and lessons learned throughout their journey. Presented by Rev. Dorothy Isle-Smith, LICSW and Panelists.

Reducing Hesitancy to Care: Personalizing Your Approach

Saturday, 2/4 | 11:15 - 12:15 PM

Join us in a discussion about presenting care to your loved one. Whether you are offering personal care, trying to introduce outside formal care, or helping a primary caregiver accept more help, you may be met with resistance. We’ll discuss possible reasons for hesitation to care, how to use person-centered care to determine how to successfully present care, review dementia care communication strategies to use when offering care, and provide real life examples. Presented by Jill Hovansian, LCSW, Jenna Dion, CDP.

Creating a Healthy and Safe Environment for Living with Dementia

Saturday, 2/4 | 12:45 - 1:45 PM

The best environment for a person with dementia is one that helps them to be as happy and independent as possible. Learn about brain changes that impact safety awareness, and how to create a positive and supportive approach to your loved one's needs. Familiarity with their environment and routine is important for a person with dementia, therefore we will review ways to modify spaces in your home to make them more safe and functional. Presented by Melissa Grenier, LCSW and Erin DiCarlo, Dovetail Companies.