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CAREGIVERS AND PROFESSIONALS

RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM

Friday, November 8, 2024

9:30 am to 2:30 pm

Feinberg Pavilion Conference Center

Northwestern University

251 E Huron, 3rd Floor

Chicago, IL 60611

About the Annual Symposium

The Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter hosts a research symposium every year in November to honor National Family Caregivers Month – a time to celebrate the contributions of caregivers, increase their awareness and connect them with information and resources.

By hosting this annual symposium, we have the opportunity to bring together over 300 caregivers, patients, families and healthcare professionals to learn about the latest in Alzheimer's and dementia research and the Association's role in driving and leading global research initiatives. We are also able to provide the attendees with information, tools, and resources.

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Agenda

Objective: An in-depth review of clinical studies and lifestyle interventions from distinguished researchers, clinicians and dementia professionals at the Health Systems across the Chicagoland area. Discussions will also include topics on brain health, risk reduction and early detection.

9:30 am – 10:00 am

Breakfast, Registration, and Exhibitor Spotlight 

10:00 am – 10:02 am

Welcome

Delia Jervier, Region 9 Vice President and Illinois Chapter Executive
Dr. Hyejin Kim, Rush University College of Nursing

10:03 am – 10:15 am

Clinical Trial Awareness Presentation

Moderator: Dr. Karen Graham
Candace Edwards, Alzheimer’s Association Community Educator

10:17 am – 11:50 am

Plenary Session: Discussion of studies, recruitment, excitement in the research space

Moderator: Dr. Courtney Kloske, Alzheimer’s Association

 

Dr. Concetta Forchetti, Ascension

Dr. Christy Tangney, Rush University

Dr. Jeffrey Loeb, UIC College of Medicine

Dr. Ian Grant, Northwestern Medicine

11:50 am – 12:35 pm

Lunch and Exhibitor Spotlight

12:37 pm – 12:39 pm

Age Guide Resources

Marla Fronczak, Chief Executive Officer AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois

12:40 pm – 1:20 pm

Early Detection -what is involved

Moderator: Ben Lissner

Dr. Allison Lapins, Northwestern Medicine

1:20 pm – 1:50 pm

Identification and management of common behavioral disturbances in individuals with dementia

Moderator: Nancy Tyrrell

Dr. Kimchi, University of Illinois at Chicago

1:50 pm – 2:20 pm

Legal Planning

Moderator: Olivia Matongo

Peck Ritchey – Kerry Peck

2:20 pm – 2:30 pm

Closing Remarks

Olivia Matongo, Vice President of Programs

Dr. Ajay Sood, Rush University

speakers

Speakers

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For over two decades, Candace Edwards has worn many hats—literally and figuratively. As a flight attendant with United Airlines, she’s spent time navigating the skies and ensuring passengers land safely, always with a smile (and maybe a little turbulence on the beverage cart!). But that’s only a part of her journey. When she’s not flying at 35,000 feet, Candace has been deeply grounded in her passion for the arts. As an actor for the past 20 years, she’s honed her craft on stage, TV, and film, always striving for authenticity and truth in her performances. You have probably heard her voice in commercials for McDonalds and Geico, and seen her on the silver screen on shows such as Chicago Fire, and The Chi, BOSS (Kelsey Grammer), and Mind Games (Steve Zahn). 

 

Her career, however, isn’t limited to entertainment and travel. Candace is also a dedicated advocate for Alzheimer’s awareness, a role that holds deep personal significance. As a Community Educator for the Alzheimer’s Association, she speaks with heartfelt conviction, bringing a unique blend of warmth, insight, and lived experience. Supporting her mother, who suffers from Vascular Dementia, has driven her commitment to educating others about this disease and offering hope to families facing similar challenges. Candace is honored to be invited to Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine to present at this year's Research Symposium, where she’ll share her journey and offer a brief 10-minute presentation on Health Equity. (And yes, she promises to stick to the 10 minutes!)

 

When she’s not soaring through the air, acting, or educating, Candace is deeply connected to her faith. As an active member of New Life Covenant Southeast under Pastor Hannah and Pastor Glenn, she finds her strength in prayer and community service. Through her church and public speaking, she inspires others to live with purpose, even when life’s journey takes unexpected turns.**

Committee

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Perla Castro – MIS, PMP

Perla Castro is deeply committed to Alzheimer's research, advocacy, and education. She passionately fights stigma and actively advocates for increased aging-in-place support services for all those affected by the disease, particularly within the Latino community. For 22 years, Perla was a dedicated caregiver for her mother, who was diagnosed with young-onset Alzheimer's in her early 50s. She volunteers her time and expertise as a Project Manager for various community organizations in Chicago and Guatemala.

 

With over 20 years of experience, Perla has driven significant global program success for Fortune 500 companies, government entities, and non-profit organizations. As the Interim Executive Director of LA CARE, an organization dedicated to the advocacy, research, and education of Alzheimer’s disease, she leads efforts to advance awareness and support within the Latino community. Additionally, as the owner of Alpha PM Consulting, she excels in building team consensus and cultivating exceptional relationships across cultures, industries, and organizations. Perla is a dedicated entrepreneur and community advocate who is fluent in Spanish and English.

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Historical Symposiums

Research Conference and Webinar: Connecting the Dots

November 12, 2022

9:00 AM – 12:15 PM CST

An in-depth review of clinical trials and lifestyle activities that may reduce the risk of the developing Alzheimer’s disease, and signs to watch for to ensure early diagnosis.

Who Should Attend?

Clinical, research, and family tracks are designed for:

  • Attendee with early dementia or MCI

  • Family, friend, or family care partner* of person with dementia (*Non-Professional)

  • Professional I (Professional caregiver, direct care staff, administrator: please note: no continuing education credits offered)

  • Professional II (Health and allied health professionals with CEU or CME)

Continuing Education

3.0 CEU, CME credits offered for attendees registered as a Professional II only. The following professionals are eligible for continuing education credit:

  • Counselor-Professional/Clinical

  • Dietitian/Nutrition Counselor

  • Marriage and Family Counselor

  • Nurse (APN, RN, LPN)

  • Nursing Home Administrator

  • Occupational Therapist/COTA

  • Physical Therapist/PTA

  • Physician

  • Psychologist

  • Respiratory Therapist

  • Social Worker (LSW, LCSW)

  • Others, please inquire at omatongo@alz.org

  • Inquire about other licenses or credentials at ceupro.com

Platinum Sponsors

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Silver Sponsors

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Bronze Sponsors

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Breakfast & Lunch Sponsor

The Jachino Family

Lunch Sponsor

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Resource Vendor Table

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Questions?

For questions or more information about the conference, contact Hadi Finerty at hfinerty@alz.org or by telephone at 815-272-2011.

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Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter

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Lisle, IL 60532

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