Alzheimer’s Association Iowa Chapter to host annual BrainWorks Conference April 18

The Alzheimer’s Association Iowa Chapter’s annual BrainWorks Conference is back in person this year from 9 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. April 18 at Willow on Grand in Des Moines. This year’s conference is focused on providing family caregivers with information and resources to help them care for themselves and their loved one living with Alzheimer’s or dementia It is free and open to the public, but registration is required because space is limited.

Experts in the fields of dementia care, research and legal planning will present on different topics throughout the conference:

• Dr. Nadia Sabbagh Steinberg, a professor at the University of Iowa, School of Social Work, will share information on how to navigate caregiving throughout the different stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia.

• Chad Eichorn, an Estate Law and Elder Law attorney from Pearson Bollman Law, will share information on legal issues families may face during care planning for their loved one living with the disease.

• Dr. Percy Griffin, Director of Scientific Engagement at the Alzheimer’s Association, will present on early detection, risk reduction and new Alzheimer’s treatments.

• Stephanie Johnson, Certified Music Therapist and founder of Music Speaks, will share how music therapy can help those living with the disease.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from these experts, ask questions, visit with exhibitors who provide resources from across the state and talk with other local caregivers throughout the day. To learn more and register, visit alz.org/iowa or call 800-272-3900.

There are 6.7 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia, and 66,000 Iowans are living with the disease. There are also 11 million family members and friends caring for a loved one, including 98,000 caregivers across Iowa.