The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) will host a free Alzheimer’s & Caregiving Educational Conference from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 12 at the Sheraton Albuquerque Uptown hotel, 2600 Louisiana Blvd. NE. The event is open to everyone and will allow participants to learn from experts about brain health, caregiving, and long-term care planning.
Conference sessions will include:
- An overview from a University of New Mexico neurology professor about Alzheimer’s and related forms of dementia;
- A presentation from NM Aging Services about long-term care programs for aging adults and how to help individuals safely age in place;
- Information about safeguarding your home for those with dementia-related illnesses. From appliances to wall colors and furniture patterns, a certified aging in place specialist will discuss implementations that can ensure that a home is safer and more dementia-friendly;
- and strategies that caregivers can use for managing aggressive behaviors in dementia patients to create a safer, more supportive environment. The discussion will cover the importance of identifying the root cause of aggression and teach communication techniques to help keep those individuals calm and reassured.
Free, confidential memory screenings will be offered.
Register at www.alzfdn.org/tour. Advance registration is recommended.
Those who cannot participate in the conference or who have immediate questions about Alzheimer’s can connect with licensed social workers seven days a week through AFA’s toll-free helpline, 866-232-8484, texting 646-586-5283, or web chatting at www.alzfdn.org by clicking the blue and white chat icon.
