The Pilot Club of Quitman is hosting a free Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Conference at the First Baptist Church of Quitman (301 Lane St.) on Saturday, Oct. 7 from 9 a.m. until noon.  

Open-to-the-public, the free informational seminar will feature several subject matter experts. No registration is required. The Pilot Club will provide light refreshments. The topics presented will include the following:

Understanding Alzheimer’s & Dementia: Learn about the impact of Alzheimer’s, the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia, stages and risk factors, and current research and symptom treatments available, and Alzheimer’s Association resources. Speaker: Megan Rowe, MPS, Alzheimer’s Association

Understanding Behaviors & Effective Communication Strategies: Behavior is a primary way for people with dementia to communicate their needs and feelings as they lose the ability to use language. Some behaviors can present challenges for caregivers. Learn to decode behavioral signals, identify triggers and learn strategies to intervene. Look at communication changes and share strategies to help caregivers connect and communicate at each disease stage. Speaker: Megan Rowe, MPS, Alzheimer’s Association

The Caregiver Journey: Caring for a person with Alzheimer’s or dementia can feel overwhelming and lonely, but there’s support available. Hear about experiences in caregiving with practical strategies to manage challenging situations. Speakers: Brad Blakemore, Moderator: Megan Rowe

Memory Health Life Center: Learn about the vision and plans of the Wood County Health Care Foundation for a residential facility and center for research and instruction for those affected by Alzheimer’s and Dementia in Quitman. Speakers: Debbie Robinson and Annette Simpkins, Wood County Central Hospital Board members 

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 6.2 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s. By 2025, that number is expected to grow to over 12.7 million, barring medical breakthrough. Event chair Kaye Andres said, “Once diagnosed, patients and caregivers seek information and resources. We know education can help combat stress and smooth the way for a better quality of life. To this purpose, our club has held several of these seminars, and they have always been well attended. We look forward to meeting this need again.”

Quitman Pilot Club is an all-volunteer organization with the mission of educating for the prevention of traumatic brain injury and offering services to those suffering from brain related disorders, such as Alzheimer’s, stroke and autism.