UW’s Wyoming Center on Aging to Launch ‘Dementia on the Road’

The University of Wyoming’s Wyoming Center on Aging (WyCOA) begins its new statewide program, “Dementia on the Road,” Wednesday, May 31, on the campus of Laramie County Community College, located at 1400 E. College Drive in Cheyenne.

This daylong event, to be held in the Clay Pathfinder Building, begins at 9 a.m. and is free and open to the public.

“We strongly believe that it’s important to bring education about dementia and information about resources to the many persons around the state of Wyoming who are caregivers of persons living with dementia,” says Catherine Carrico, associate director of WyCOA. “This event at Laramie County Community College is the first in a series we’ll use to provide education and facilitate connection to community resources. Regional experts will offer presentations on dementia and will participate in panel discussions where questions and comments are encouraged.”

The May 31 event includes presentations from dementia professionals on topics such as “Dementia: What We All Need to Know”; “Interdisciplinary Team Approach to Supporting You and Your Loved One -- The Role of Speech and Occupational Therapy”; “Values-Based Care Planning for the Future”; and “Getting to Know the Resources.”

While there is no charge to attend, organizers request an RSVP by calling WyCOA at (307) 766-2829 or emailing wycoa@uwyo.edu. Lunch will be provided. The event also will be broadcast live for those who are not able to attend in person. Login information will be sent to those who RSVP for the event.

Following the event May 31, “Dementia on the Road” will offer other in-person events later this year. The next is scheduled Wednesday, Oct. 4, in Gillette, followed by programs Thursday, Oct. 5, in Riverton and Friday, Oct. 6, in Rock Springs, with details to be announced later. The programs will be presented through WyCOA and will highlight the Wyoming Dementia Together Caregiver Network.

For information about registering for this or other free educational opportunities offered by WyCOA, call (307) 766-2829, email wycoa@uwyo.edu or visit the website at www.uwyo.edu/wycoa.