'It's Memory Loss. Now What?': Free conference in Niagara Falls on March 15

The Western New York Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association will host a free conference titled “It’s Memory Loss. Now What?” for Niagara County residents on Wednesday, March 15.

The conference will take place from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Niagara Falls Library Main Branch at 1425 Main St. If individuals cannot attend in person, they can log on to hear the presentations via Zoom.

“This conference will provide incredibly valuable information for people with a loved one with mild cognitive impairment or the early stage of Alzheimer's disease or dementia,” said Andrea Koch, director of education and training for the WNY Chapter. “We know that making plans early on leads to significantly better outcomes later when a person's need for care increases.”

Guest speakers will address several topics that arise when a person is diagnosed, including understanding more about dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Sarah Harlock, social worker at Dent Neurologic, will discuss partnering with health care professionals; and Chris Phillips, an attorney from the Center for Elder Law and Justice, will speak about legal and financial planning in the face of dementia.

A resource fair will offer information from several organizations, including UBMD Neurology, Niagara County Office for the Aging, Complete Senior Care PACE (a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly), Niagara Hospice and the Center for Elder Law and Justice, among others. Light refreshments will be served.

“We are excited to offer our attendees the opportunity to win a free robotic companion cat or dog,” Koch said. “These robotic pets have been shown to help reduce agitation and provide comfort to people in the middle stages of dementia.”

Individuals can register online at bit.ly/AlzNiaFalls23 or by calling the Alzheimer’s Association’s free, confidential 24/7 helpline at 800-272-3900.

The conference is sponsored by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York and is funded in part by grants from the New York State Department of Health.