Tuesday, May 3, 2022
Program Schedule
Schedule: April 25th 2024- Crowne Plaza Warwick, RI
8:30am -9:45 am
Registration and Check in/ Light Refreshments/Visit Vendor Tables
9:45am - 10:30 am
Welcome/Open Remarks
Introducing the Updated Rhode Island's Alzheimer's State Plan 2024-2029
Victoria O'Connor, Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders Program Manager, Rhode Island Department of Health
Donna McGowan, Executive Director, Alzheimer’s Association RI Chapter
10:30 am - 10:45 am
Break/Visit Vendors
10:45am - 11:45 am
(Choose one Session)
Session 1:1 "A Walk In Their Shoes" - Somatic Dementia Simulation
Amber Evans, MA, LCMHC, R-DMT, CDP, BC-DEd
Allow Amber Evans and the team from LCB Senior Living to take you through a simulation experience to better understand and empathize with what living with Alzheimer's, or other forms of dementia can be like. Through scenarios, attendees gain insight into the potential challenges faced by individuals with dementia, fostering a deeper understanding. The session combines education and emotional connection, encouraging a more compassionate and informed approach to caregiving and interpersonal interactions with those affected by dementia.
Session 1:2 Understanding the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease
Jonathon Drake, MD
This presentation will provide a basic overview of currently available disease modifying and symptomatic therapies for Alzheimer's disease. Attendees will be provided with a basic foundation of pathologic brain changes in Alzheimer's disease that are necessary to understand currently available treatment options and future aims in clinical research.
Session 1:3 Creating Moments of Success
Patty O'Brian, BS, CDP
For individuals living with dementia, planning a day can be confusing and overwhelming. This workshop will provide the participant with a general understanding of how to choose activities in ways that will most engage individuals with dementia and illicit a positive emotion.
11:45 am - 12:00 am
Break/Visit Vendors
12:00pm - 1:00 pm
(Choose one Session)
Session 2:1 "A Walk In Their Shoes" - Somatic Dementia Simulation
Amber Evans, MA, LCMHC, R-DMT, CDP, BC-DEd
Allow Amber Evans and the team from LCB Senior Living to take you through a simulation experience to better understand and empathize with what living with Alzheimer's, or other forms of dementia can be like. Through scenarios, attendees gain insight into the potential challenges faced by individuals with dementia, fostering a deeper understanding. The session combines education and emotional connection, encouraging a more compassionate and informed approach to caregiving and interpersonal interactions with those affected by dementia.
Session 2:2 Making Legal/ Financial Plans After a Diagnosis of Dementia
Mark Heffner, Esq
In this session basic legal and financial considerations will be discussed after a diagnosis of dementia occurs. Elder Law Attorney Mark B. Heffner will present answers to questions, such as “How can I protect assets if a nursing home placement becomes necessary? What are Trusts and Powers of Attorney? How do I avoid Probate?” Attorney Heffner will review the legal tools available for the caregiver, as well as destroy myths that prevent caregivers from effectively managing the affairs and protecting the assets of loved ones.
Session 2:3 Caregiving Through the Lens of Black Culture and Hispanic Culture
Geraldine Mitchell, BA
Black Americans and Hispanic Americans are more at risk of developing Alzheimer's disease or related dementia at some point in their lives. Obtain an overall understanding of how stigma, systemic disparities, and cultural factors can define the caregiving journey.
Session 2:4 Being Prepared...Emergencies Happen
Laurie Mantz, OTR, CDP, CADDCT
Preparing for the unexpected emergencies can eliminate undo stress,complications and tragedies while supporting a person living with dementia. This planning should include preparing for the caregiver and persons diagnosed potential emergencies.
1:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Lunch/ Visit Vendors
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
RI Alzheimer's Research Update: The NEW Era of Treatments and Research
Kristen Cusato, Alzheimer's Association Research Champion and Elyse Couch, PhD
2:30pm - 2:45 pm
Break/Visit Vendors
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm
(Choose one Session)
Session 3:1 "A Walk In Their Shoes" - Somatic Dementia Simulation
Amber Evans, MA, LCMHC, R-DMT, CDP, BC-DEd
Allow Amber Evans and the team from LCB Senior Living to take you through a simulation experience to better understand and empathize with what living with Alzheimer's, or other forms of dementia can be like. Through scenarios, attendees gain insight into the potential challenges faced by individuals with dementia, fostering a deeper understanding. The session combines education and emotional connection, encouraging a more compassionate and informed approach to caregiving and interpersonal interactions with those affected by dementia.
Session 3:2 Recognizing the Signs: When to Reach Out for Support Services and How to Know the Time is Right
Lisa Wasson, RN, CHPN, CMDCP
Explore tips, real-life examples and expert guidance in growing our knowledge and confidence in discerning when the time is right to reach out for external assistance from local providers to make the caregiving experience healthier and more fulfilling.
Session 3:3 Six Pillars of Brain Health
Marcus Mitchell, AARP RI Volunteer
It’s never too late to focus on your brain health! In this interactive session, presented by AARP Rhode Island, you will learn about the six pillars of brain health, activities that support brain health, and hopefully be inspired by others. This session is a good overview for anyone interested in learning more about brain health and will provide you with information on the latest research on brain health, lifestyle suggestions, and resources to learn more.
Session 3:4 “Knowing the Person” When Planning/Providing Support & Care
Kelly McCarthy, BA
Learn valuable information on the importance of developing a support team early and specific person centered interventions, strategies, and approaches to support your role as a caregiver and the person in your care.
3:45pm - 4:00 pm
Break/Visit Vendors
4:00pm - 4:30 pm
Closing Session: Balance, Breath, & Movement
Kathy O'Neel Webster, Owner of ShipShape
This 30-minute session includes seated stretches,strengthening exercises and breathwork to relax and rejuvenate both the caregivers and their families.