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The Geriatrics and Gerontology Education and Research (GGEAR) program at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, with generous support from the Maryland Department of Aging, is pleased to announce its new professional development and community education program titled “Navigating Dementia.”

Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia (ADRD) represent a growing public health crisis. Across Maryland, there are an estimated 110,000 individuals ages 65 and older living with ADRD and nearly 240,000 unpaid family members providing care to these individuals. Recognizing the unique needs of these groups, GGEAR is hosting a series of five webinars and two in-person conferences that are free and open to the public.

The "Navigating Dementia" educational series is intended for Aging Services professionals, caregivers of people living with ADRD, and anyone with an interest in matters concerning older adults. The series will provide valuable knowledge, resources, and support on topics related to aging, cognitive health, dementia care, and caregiving in Maryland.

The events are listed below with dates and times. Note: All times listed include event check-in, pre-event assessment, post-event assessment, and program evaluation. In-person conferences include continental breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack.

Webinar 1: Friday, March 1 (12:30 p.m.-3 p.m.): Understanding Cognitive Aging: Differentiating Between Usual and Unusual Changes in Memory

Webinar 2: Friday, March 8 (12:30 p.m.-3 p.m.): Understanding Dementia: Differentiating Reversible and Irreversible Causes

In-Person Conference 1: Friday, March 22 (8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.), The Meeting House, Columbia: Health Literacy and Plain Language Communication in Alzheimer's and Related Dementia

Webinar 3: Friday, April 19 (12:30 p.m.-3 p.m.): Exploring Medical and Nonmedical Interventions to Slow Cognitive Decline Associated with ADRD

Webinar 4: Wednesday, April 24 (tbd): Spectrum of Services & Supports in Maryland for Persons Living with Dementia

(Note: This webinar will be one of several offered during the annual caregivers conference webinar hosted by Eastern Shore MAC, Inc. More information will be provided to individuals registering for this webinar. The Eastern Shore caregivers conference is scheduled for 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.)

In-Person Conference 2: Friday, May 10 (8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.), The Meeting House, Columbia: Assessment Tools Workshop: Tools & Referrals for Non-Clinicians

Webinar 5: Friday, May 24 (12:30 p.m.-3 p.m.): Empowering Caregivers: Essential Resources and Supports in Maryland

Don't miss these valuable opportunities to enhance your knowledge and empower yourself with understanding and essential tools to support older adults living with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia in Maryland. Register now to secure your spot in one or more of our spring 2024 events!

​Participant Registration Form​

CEUs available at no-cost for certified dementia practitioners, certified senior advisors, Maryland social workers, and Maryland psychologists and mental health professionals.

Certificate of Attendance will be provided to all participants.

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