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, March 1, 2024: Programs for Individuals Living with Dementia

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

Friday, 3/1 | 9:30 - 11:00 AM

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 Melissa Grenier, LCSW, and Panelists
Handouts

Maximizing Independence: Tips and Strategies to Organize Your Space and Home

Friday, 3/1 | 11:15 AM - 12:15 PM

This session will discuss simple ideas for you to live in your home as safely and independently as possible. Tips and strategies will be shared for implementing safety measures for each room in your house, creating routines to maximize independence, and utilizing devices that you might find helpful. Simple suggestions such as decluttering, creating color contrast and increasing lighting can make a big difference. Planning early is the key to success!

Presented by Cindy Tulimieri, OTR/L and Nancy Monahan, MS OTR/L, CMC, CDP
Slides

Using Art and Mindfulness to Care for Yourself

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

Art Therapy
This session will highlight the benefits of art therapy for individuals living with memory loss by inviting you to be a part of the creative process. The presenter will demonstrate art that can be done at home, explain why some art supplies don't work, and encourage you to create with her. Registrants are welcome to watch or participate in the art exercise.

OPTIONAL Art Supplies to participate in an artmaking experience:
One sheet of white paper with a pre-drawn circle in the center of it. This will be given to you as a template ahead of time. Feel free to use template supplied or trace a circle on the paper you'd like to use. All art supplies are welcome to create! Erica will be using paints. If you're feeling overwhelmed or this might be your first time, Erica suggests collage items - scissors, adhesive (glue/tape), magazines/tissues paper.

Presented by Erica Curcio, LMHC, RAT

Slides | Handout

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Mindfulness Practice
Join us for a thirty minute presentation designed for those living with memory loss. We will discuss the basics and benefits of a mindfulness practice, and why it is important for those living with memory loss. You will take away simple yet impactful mindfulness based practices such as mindful breath work, body scan meditations, and sensory type exercises that you can integrate into your daily life.

Presented by Jenna Dion, CDP

Slides | Handout | Resources

Saturday, March 2, 2024: Programs for Family Caregivers

Opening Remarks & Keynote: A Time of Hope: Advances in Treatment and Modifiable Risk Factors

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

Now for the first time we have FDA approved drugs that may change disease progression. This session will highlight these options, along with health disparities in dementia prevalence, and lifestyle modifications that can reduce one’s risk of developing dementia. Experts agree that in the vast majority of cases, Alzheimer's, like other common chronic conditions, probably develops as a result of complex interactions among multiple factors, including age, genetics, environment, lifestyle and coexisting medical conditions. Although some risk factors — such as age or genes — cannot be changed, other risk factors, such as high blood pressure and lack of exercise, usually can be changed to help reduce risk.

Presented by Dr. Edmarie Guzman Velez

Slides

Caregiver Conversations: Journey of Hope, Panel of Caregivers

Saturday, 3/2 | 11:15 - 12:15 PM

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 Nicole McGurin, MS, and Panelists

Creating Meaningful Engagement with Memory Boxes

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

Often in the early stages of dementia, one’s attention span and ability to initiate activities can be altered, making it difficult for the person to engage in hobbies or pastimes they once enjoyed. This session will focus on the evidence about the use of failure-free activities to engage the early or mid-stage person living with a progressive dementing illness. Strategies will be shared that can help reduce anxiety when surrounded by an overstimulating, understimulating, or unfamiliar environment, and bring meaning to the person’s life. A special focus will be on what to add to a memory box and how to present the activity so it feels meaningful and fulfilling.

Presented by Judith Pare, PhD, RN

Slides