Alzheimer’s News:
ALBUQUERQUE — The Alzheimer’s Association, New Mexico Chapter is inviting caregivers across the state to attend its Caregiver Conference, which will be held in-person Dec. 10.
This annual conference is the preeminent event covering the broad spectrum of issues surrounding dementia caregiving. The event is free of charge and provides separate tracks for both Family Caregivers and Professional Caregivers.
“Caregivers for people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia face unique challenges, it can be overwhelming.” Executive Director Tim Sheahan said. “Because of the nature of this disease, caregiving can be exceptionally demanding and intensive. This opportunity will provide caregivers with a wealth of helpful, practical information designed to improve their caregiving experience”
The theme this year is: “A Better Tomorrow”. The conference has been designed to help caregivers navigate their journey guided by the latest information on research, treatment, behaviors, financial planning, best care practices and much more.
“The dementia journey can be challenging and confusing, not only for the person living with it, but also for the caregiver,” Program Director Ron Eppes said. “We want caregivers to know they are not alone in this journey. As innovations in dementia care and science continue to emerge, we are all on our way to a better tomorrow.”
The 18th Annual Alzheimer’s Association New Mexico Chapter Caregiver Conference is 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, at the Marriott Albuquerque (Uptown), 2101 Louisiana Blvd NE in Albuquerque.
Separate tracks are provided for Professional Caregivers and Family Caregivers. To register, view the agenda and speakers, or to get more information, visit this link or call 505.266.4473. The event is free to attend and will be held in-person.
“We are so thrilled to be having this conference in-person again after having to host it virtually for the past two years due to the pandemic,” Sheahan said. “Caregivers have let us know that they are looking forward to the opportunity to interact in-person with their peers, with us, and with the experts that we have presenting.”
There are more than 11 million family caregivers in the U.S and nearly half of these caregivers provide help to someone with Alzheimer’s or another dementia. Here in this state, there are 85,000 caregivers who provide unpaid care to the 43,000 New Mexicans living with the disease.
The Alzheimer’s Association, NM Chapter offers scores of services helpful to caregivers, including educational presentations, support groups, a 24/7 Helpline (1.800.272.3900), a community resources finder, a respite reimbursement program and more.
To receive information about resources, email nmprograms@gmail.com or call 800.272.3900.