A Day of Learning, Connection, and Hope: Expert Strategies for Living Well with Dementia

Hope, encouragement, and a renewed sense of possibility filled the room at the recent Living Well With Dementia Sisters (LWWDS) Fall Conference. Community members, care partners, and professionals gathered to learn, share experiences, and explore new ways to support individuals and families navigating the dementia journey.

The conference featured presentations on medical advances in dementia care, maintaining cognitive health, the importance of social connections, planning for incapacity, and navigating long-term care decisions. Each speaker provided valuable insights and practical information to help families face the future with greater knowledge and confidence.

City of Sisters Councilor Cheryl Pellerin captured the spirit of the day:

“As I looked around the room, I saw the faces of hope and engagement. Many citizens were actively taking notes.”

Reflecting on her mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis twenty years ago, Councilor Pellerin expressed encouragement about the progress being made in dementia research and treatment.

LWWDS Board Chair Maggie Keynton praised the teamwork behind the event, recognizing the dedication and flexibility of everyone involved. Board member Stephanie VanKlootwyk echoed those sentiments, describing the organization as a group of people who genuinely care about making a difference.

A heartfelt thank-you to Dr. Ferenz and all our outstanding speakers for generously sharing their time, expertise, and compassion. We also thank our volunteers, community partners, sponsors, and everyone who attended.

Most importantly, the conference reinforced a message central to our mission: a dementia diagnosis does not mean the end of living well. With education, meaningful connections, and compassionate community support, there is always reason for hope.

Together, we are building a community where no one faces dementia alone.

Living Well With Dementia Sisters — Empower. Educate. Embrace.