National Speakers, Universal Issues

This conference is presented in partnership with  Alzheimer's Association Greater Michigan Chapter and the Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program (AGREED) Grant. We thank them for their support.

Once you have registered, select: Earn CEs or No CEs, You are NOT registered until your payment is complete. REGISTER HERE (Space is limited).

AGENDA

• 7:45 am - Hot Breakfast Buffet Opens
• 8:15 to 9:45 am - Introduction and Keynote Presentation:

Emerging Findings from the National Dementia Workforce Study

Donovan Maust, MD, MS, University of Michigan

Dr. Maust will introduce the National Dementia Workforce Study, highlighting its key components and illustrating at least two types of workforce questions the data can inform, including practice, education, and policy decisions. Key findings from the first wave will be summarized, with discussion of at least one implication for improving dementia care, workforce training, or professional development. Upcoming study phases will be outlined, plus an anticipated application of the findings in clinical or educational settings.

• 9:45 to 11:00 am - Presentation:

Examining Relationships Between Fitness, Mobility, Cognition, and the Brain in Aging

Scott Hayes, PhD, The Ohio State University

Aging is commonly associated with declines in cognitive function and brain health, but substantial individual variability exists in aging trajectories. This lecture will examine the relationships between modifiable lifestyle factors — particularly physical fitness and mobility — and cognitive performance and brain health in older adulthood. Recent work examining the acute effects of exercise on cognition and the brain will also be discussed.

• 11:00 to 11:20 am - Break, Visit Vendors, Networking
• 11:20 to 12:30 am - Presentation:

Solutions to Isolation & Loneliness for Caregivers & Older Adults

Jeremy Holloway, PhD, MBA, New Mexico Highlands University

Isolation and loneliness affect caregivers and older adults in ways that can negatively influence their well-being, dignity and long-term health. Drawing from research with healthcare students and frontline staff, Dr. Holloway will examine how cross-cultural communication, intentional listening, and intergenerational engagement contributeto stronger relationships and healthier outcomes. He will highlight the consequences of social isolation and loneliness, explain how cultural perspectives shape comm unicat ion in the healthcare workplace, and give practical strategies that strengthen connectedness, purpose and resiliency among caregivers and older adults.

• 12:30 to 1:15 pm - Lunch
• 1:15 to 1:35 pm - Institute of Gerontology Research Update:

The Latest Research from the Institute of Gerontology

Ana Daugherty, PhD, IOG Director

• 1:35 to 2:50 pm - Presentation:

Advance Care Planning Challenges & Controversies

Adam Marks, MD, MPH, FAAHPM, University of Michigan

Dr. Marks will review the current data regarding the impact of advance care planning (ACP). Common challenges for translating ACP into decision making will be discussed, as well as barriers to completion of ACP documents. He will also review the rise of Dementia Directives and the ethical and legal controversies around this emerging form of advance care planning.

• 2:50 to 4:05 pm - Presentation:

Practical Technology: Functional Tools to Support Older Adults

James Giordani, MSW, Director of Development, AsKevin, Inc.

For better or worse older adults are being asked – even required – to do more with phones, computers and other high-tech devices. But they often fail to get the support they need to truly master these devices and harness their benefits. Discover how technology is changing the lives of older adults, learn why it can be so frustrating, and explore new devices, apps, websites, and tools designed to help older adults stay connected, stay healthy, and even age safely in-place.

VIEW ISSUES IN AGING FLYER (PDF) 

The IOG's longest running continuing education conference, this program is geared to health care professionals, service providers, administrators and researchers working in the field of aging. It focuses on dementia and frailty in late life. Issues in Aging is also open to students interested in learning current research and best practices