Program

The New England Conference for Dementia Care Professionals offers the most up-to-date information and recommendations. Registrants will receive a full recording of each session post conference.

Keynote

Advancing the Science: The Latest in Alzheimer’s and Dementia Research

9:00 AM - 10:30 AM | Keynote Presentation

The dementia science community has made significant gains in our understanding of the science and basic biology underlying Alzheimer’s disease, and these advances are leading to great strides in prevention, detection, diagnostics and therapeutic interventions. This talk will focus on the latest scientific advancements and progress in Alzheimer's and dementia research.

Presented by Christopher J Weber, PhD, Director of Global Science Initiatives, Alzheimer’s Association

Morning Presentation - Three Options to Choose From

Surviving Alzheimer's: The lived experience of two healthcare professionals

10:45 AM - 12:00 PM | Morning Presentation (option 1 of 3)

This workshop will provide a unique opportunity for participants to gain insight into how a caregiver attempts to cope with the daily and progressive challenges of Alzheimer's.  Mike, the primary caregiver for his wife who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's at the age of 56, will share their lived experience navigating this disease.  Through his genuine and thoughtful account of the successes and unavoidable emotional and physical trauma, this session will present strategies and resources to support family caregivers.

Presented by Mike Corjulo, APRN, Nurse Practitioner, Family Caregiver | Supporting & Empowering Professional & Family Caregivers Track

Lining Lunch Boxes with Possibilities

10:45 AM - 12:00 PM | Morning Presentation (option 2 of 3)

This workshop will provide participants with a general understanding of the evidence pertaining to failure free activities that can engage the early and middle stage person living with a progressive dementia. The takeaways from this session include: offering strategies for purposeful distractions when the environment may be understimulating or overstimulating, and offering suggestions to reduce the anxieties experienced by the person with memory loss when they are surrounded by an unfamiliar environment.

Presented by Judith Pare, PhD, RN, Director, Division of Nursing, Massachusetts Nurses Association | Meaningful Engagement Track

Navigating Social and Health Care Needs for People Living with Dementia in Underserved Communities

10:45 AM - 12:00 PM | Morning Presentation (option 3 of 3)

This workshop will provide participants a better understanding of the barriers confronting people living with dementia (PLWD) in low-income families and discuss the relevance of providing education to families in order to effectively communicate with their family members living with dementia. We will look at how to form a support team and find useful resources.

Presented by Beth Edelberg-Cardillo, M.Ed., LSW, CDP; Alina Sibley, APRN, BCl Izckra Speight, CHW, CDP; Rebecca Symmons, BSN, RN, Baystate Health (Baystate House Calls) | Care Approaches Track

Afternoon Presentation - Three Options to Choose From

First Things First: Self-Care for Professional Caregivers

1:00 PM - 2:15 PM | Afternoon Presentation (option 1 of 3)

This session will explore the unique challenges faced by individuals in professional caregiving roles, and will offer embodied strategies to be proactive in navigating stress, preventing burnout, and fostering resilience. Participants will gain practical insights into incorporating sustainable self-care practices, recognizing the symbiotic relationship between personal well-being and effective caregiving leadership. It will also explore the many potential barriers to accessing self care, and how to overcome them.

Presented by Amber Evans, MA, LCMHC, R-DMT, BC-DEd, VP Memory Care and Resident Engagement, LCB Senior Living | Supporting & Empowering Professional & Family Caregivers Track

Harmonizing Minds: Innovative Interventions for Atypical Dementia and Care Partner Empowerment

1:00 PM - 2:15 PM | Afternoon Presentation (option 2 of 3)

This workshop will equip attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the importance of cognitive skills-building exercises, including music-based activities, in managing neurodegenerative disorders, emphasizing the person living with a dementia and care partner (both professional and family caregivers) dynamic. It will explore the dynamics between individuals with cognitive disorders and their care partners, underscoring the importance of their collaborative efforts in facing dementia's challenges. The focus will be on innovative cognitive tools designed to enhance cognitive functions and improve the person’s independence. The primary goal is to provide participants with basic knowledge and practical tools that can fortify the person living with dementia and care partner bond, thereby improving the quality of life for those impacted by dementia. This is an adaptable, modifiable and interactive program.

Presented by Bonnie Wong, PhD/ABPP-CN, Directory, Neuropsychology Program, FTD Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital | Meaningful Engagement Track

From Analysis to Action: Case Studies as Catalysts for Elevated Care Standards and Staff Satisfaction

1:00 PM - 2:15 PM | Afternoon Presentation (option 3 of 3)

In this workshop, we will delve into the power of utilizing innovative case study formats and discussion sessions to elevate the quality of care of those living with cognitive change. This session will demonstrate the power of cross-departmental collaboration to best serve residents through person-centered case studies. Examples of case study formats will be shared in addition to the positive impact of case studies on families, care teams, and individuals living with cognitive change.

Presented by Nicole Atchison, LPC, R-DMT, Memory Support Manager, RiverWoods Durham | Care Approaches Track