With an estimated 1,600 Kauaʻi residents living with Alzheimer’s disease, a conference will equip family caregivers, health care professionals, and community members with practical strategies and a deeper understanding of dementia care.
In partnership with the County of Kauaʻi’s Agency on Elderly Affairs, the Alzheimer’s Association–Hawaiʻi Chapter is hosting “Ola Nā Lima Mālama: Hawaiʻi Caregiver Conference” from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 28, at the Fine Arts Center at Kauaʻi Community College.
The no-cost, one-day event will provide education, resources, and hands-on tools to support caregivers of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Registration is required and available online.
“Caregivers play a critical role in supporting our kūpuna and strengthening our community,” said Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami. “This conference is about making sure they feel supported, prepared, and connected, with access to the tools and resources they need to provide care with confidence and compassion.”
The event will feature nationally recognized dementia educator Adria Thompson, founder of Be Light Care, along with interactive sessions focused on real-world caregiving challenges and solutions.
Participants may attend three sessions:
- “Great Expectations in Dementia Care” – Understanding how dementia affects the brain and adjusting expectations to improve care outcomes
- “Through Their Eyes: Understanding Resistance” – Exploring why individuals with dementia may resist care and how to respond effectively
- “Making Care Make Sense: A Practical Guide” – Hands-on strategies caregivers can apply to improve daily care routines
Additional activities include a local brain health update, a Brain Fitness session, and opportunities for questions and discussion. Lunch will be provided for pre-registered attendees.
For more information, contact Cindy Fowler with the Alzheimer’s Association–Hawaiʻi Chapter at 808-518-6655 or cfowler@alz.org.
