Dementia education for all

Bluestem Communities will host a Dementia Forum on Wednesday, July 17, at Kidron Bethel Village’s Kidron Hall. The event is free and open to the public, particularly those who provide care for individuals living with dementia. One continuing education credit will be offered for those who need it through LeadingAge Kansas. 

Amy Siple, APRN, will speak on “Understanding Dementia & Caring for Those Who Have It.” Siple is a national speaker and author on healthcare issues that impact older adults and the empowerment of healthcare givers. In addition, she has been serving the primary care needs of residents in long-term care as a nurse practitioner for more than 24 years. 

Siple’s Dementia Forum presentation will review the most common types of dementia and help participants understand why challenging neuropsychiatric symptoms (behaviors) occur. The presentation will explore strategies for interacting with someone with dementia and tips for de-escalating someone with agitation. 

Several local health care organizations will also be present to visit with participants about the resources and services they provide. 

Doors for the event open at 6 p.m., with the presentation at 6:30 p.m. The information booths will be open from 6 to 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 to 8 p.m.