The Association for Professionals in Aging is excited to sponsor this fun and information-filled educational workshop in partnership with the Giving Voice Foundation.
Join us at Twin Towers for a full-day of speakers discussing how to incorporate creativity into caring for a loved one with dementia. With such a great line-up of instructors, this workshop will provide helpful tools for you to use. And if you need CEs, this full day workshop is approved for 6.5 CEs.
This program is intended for social workers, nurses, activity directors, local musicians, movement instructors, and the general community!
Lunch and beverages will be included.
CEs for Ohio social workers and counselors. Please include your license number at registration.
Nurses and other professions can be issued a certificate that you can present to your board. Be sure to register for the CEU-level ticket.
EVENT SCHEDULE
8:00 – 8:15 AM Registration & brief networking
8:15 – 8:30 AM Welcome
8:30 – 9:30 AM Dementia – An Evolving Understanding
Apta R. Errabelli, MD
A condition of great public health and economic importance, this presentation will discuss a broad overview of dementia. We will begin with defining dementia, then discuss its epidemiology and history to understand the context of our current knowledge of dementia. We will review causes of dementia, how the brain changes over time and discuss current approaches to treatment and supportive care.
9:30 – 9:45 AM A Sprinkle of Self-Care + Break
9:45 –10:45 AM Building Brain Resilience: Evidence-Based Strategies to Support Cognitive Health Across the Lifespan
Shawna Jacob, Ph.D., ABPP-CN and Audrey Greene, PsyD, ABPP-CN
While aging is inevitable, there is growing evidence that lifestyle and psychosocial factors can strengthen brain resilience and support cognitive health throughout life. This evidence-based presentation explores the science behind cognitive reserve and the modifiable factors associated with healthier brain aging, including physical activity, nutrition, sleep, stress management, mental health, and social connection. Designed for nurses, social workers, and professionals caring for older adults and individuals living with dementia, this session translates the latest research into practical, person-centered strategies that can be incorporated into clinical care, caregiver education, and everyday conversations about brain health.
10:45 –11:00 AM A Sprinkle of Self-Care + Break
11:00 –12:00 PM Arts in Healing
Kim Popa
This presentation highlights the therapeutic concepts behind the Arts in Healing initiative offered by Pones. Through dance and mindful movement, participants will engage in brief, accessible experiential exercises ranging from 30 seconds to 3 minutes, emphasizing embodied learning over discussion. Designed to demystify movement, the workshop reminds participants that simple movement can lead to profound insight. No dance experience is necessary. Rather than focusing on technique, the presentation explores self-expression, energy exchange, creativity, and presence within a supportive, nonjudgmental environment. Rooted in the concept of poesies, the experience invites participants to explore emotional healing, mental well-being, and physical wellness through imagination, curiosity, and the creative process. Participants will leave with practical, embodied tools that foster self-awareness, confidence, emotional balance, and renewal.
12:00 – 1:00 PM LUNCH
1:00 – 2:00 PM Creating Community through Music Making
Pam Temple & Spencer Funk
Discover how music can spark moments of memory and joyful connection, invite emotional release, and reduce anxiety. This interactive workshop brings participants together to share simple songs and concepts that anyone can use. Instead of just listening, you will actively participate in “voice-on” activities, and practice techniques to reach individuals when words fail. You will leave with interactive experience with song-leading, techniques for finding the music that connects best, a step-by-step plan for creating the perfect playlist, and creative, real-world ideas for using music during daily routines. Bring the communal power of song into your life, and enrich your interactions with those experiencing dementia.
2:00 – 2:15 PM A Sprinkle of Self-Care + Break
2:15 – 3:15 PM Compassionate Communication in Dementia Care
Kate Race
An overview of evidence-informed communication strategies for individuals living with dementia, focusing on compassionate, person-centered approaches that foster trust, reduce distress, and improve interactions. Topics include validation, meeting individuals in their perceived reality, effective verbal and nonverbal communication techniques, active listening, response timing, and strength-based approaches. The presentation will also explore utilizing remaining abilities and promoting independence to improve communication, preserve dignity, and enhance quality of life for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers.
3:15 – 3:30 PM A Sprinkle of Self-Care + Break
3:30 – 5:00 PM The Power of Restorative Play for Care Professionals: Renewal in Everyday Moments
Nadirah Mutala
This interactive workshop introduces restorative play as a nonclinical framework to help care professionals find small, meaningful opportunities for renewal within their existing daily routines. Participants will explore practical strategies—such as movement, sensory awareness, and food play—to boost their professional well-being and presence in dementia care without adding tasks to their workday.
5:00 – 5:15 PM Farewell, Surveys, Certificates, Final Networking
Click here to see full event flyer
