Alzheimer's Association presents 4th annual Black Caregivers Conference

The Western New York Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association will present its 4th annual Black Caregivers Conference from 12:30-3:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24, at the Frank E. Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Ave., Buffalo. People also can participate via Zoom.

A press release stated, “The conference will feature guest speakers and a resource fair, and will offer an opportunity for members of the Black community to learn more about Alzheimer’s and dementia, along with what can assist them as caregivers.”

Andrea Koch, director of education and training for the WNY Chapter, said, "We know that older Black Americans are twice as likely as older white Americans to develop Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. We want to ensure that members of Buffalo’s Black community have access to information about brain health and strategies for risk reduction. We also want those currently caring for a loved one with cognitive impairment to have the knowledge and support they need to provide the best care for their loved ones.

“National guest speakers will address the unique challenges faced by communities of color when caring for family members with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.”

Speakers include Ashley Stevens, known as The Dementia Guru; Beverly Berry, the Alzheimer's Association's national director of diversity, equity and inclusion; and Carleara Weiss, Ph.D., R.N., a nurse-scientist and professor based at the University at Buffalo.

A free caregiver resource fair will be offered featuring representatives from the Erie County Department of Senior Services, UBMD Neurology, the Center for Elder Law & Justice, and the Buffalo Urban League’s Community Mental Health Promotion and Support team (COMPHS).

Barbara Miller-Williams, City of Buffalo comptroller and member of the WNY chapter’s board of directors, said, “As someone who cared for a loved one with dementia, I know how difficult it can be. At the time, I didn’t know where to turn.

“Now, as a member of the WNY board of directors, I urge my brothers and sisters in the minority community to join us for this important conference, so they can learn more about brain health and reduce their dementia risks, and so caregivers can find the support and resources they need. Our community is disproportionately affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia, and I want them to know that the Alzheimer’s Association is here for them in the City of Buffalo.”

Registration is required and can be done online at bit.ly/BlackAlzCare24 or by calling 800-272-3900. The conference is supported in part by grants from the New York State Department of Health.

To learn more about Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias, call 800-272-3900 or visit alz.org.