INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — The Center for Memory and Motion managed by the Alzheimer and Parkinson Association of Indian River County, will be holding the 10th Annual Day of Hope Caregiver Conference on March 26.
This one day event is open to caregivers and families of those suffering from dementia which may be caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other neurological disorders. The educational program is designed to equip caregivers with knowledge and strategies to help them sustain the best quality of life as they tackle the caregiving of someone with dementia. In addition to the speaker presentations, attendees will be able to gather resource information from home care agencies, residential care facilities, and other support related professionals.
Chairperson of the conference, Cindy Bryant, recognizes the need for awareness of caregiver support in our community. “This conference helps caregivers remember to take care of themselves while caring for others. They get to spend the day with many other caregivers and sponsors from the area who are here to help.”
This year’s Day of Hope Caregiver Conference features two speakers in the field of Alzheimer and dementia related care. Pharmacology research expert and CEO of the University of South Florida Health Byrd Alzheimer Institute, Dr. David G. Morgan and Laura Zel Kremer, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from MorseLife Care Management and Counseling will present at the conference. The event will be hosted at the First Presbyterian Church at 520 Royal Palm Blvd in Vero Beach. Doors open at 9 a.m. for those who wish to gather resource information ahead of the presentations. The conference begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 2 p.m. A catered lunch is provided for all registered attendees.
Executive Director Peggy Cunningham speaks with people who call or come in looking for answers every day. “Caregivers of those with dementia need as many tools in their toolkit as possible. This is the most difficult form of caregiving because it impacts every aspect of life: emotional, social, financial as well as roles and relationships. Our goal is to offer these amazing caregivers support and information.”
Established in 1982, the support network of the nonprofit organization has grown to include a wide range of programs making 11,000 contacts with Indian River County caregivers and clients in 2014. The 4,000 square foot center provides a safe and supportive environment, empowering those affected by memory and movement disorders through social interaction. Activities are held at Center for Memory and Motion at 2300 5th Avenue and other locations throughout the community. The programs provide relief for full time caregivers as well as a positive and uplifting experience for the person participating. Memory Screening and The Virtual Dementia Tour are offered at the center. A monthly calendar listing the support groups, exercise classes, respite social groups and other opportunities is available at the front desk.
Funded entirely by local private and business contributions, the association relies heavily on volunteers to accomplish the mission of advocacy, education, empowerment and support. To make a reservation for Day of Hope or for more information on resources, programs or volunteering, email info@alzpark.org or call (772) 563-0505.
