Sanford Dementia Caregiver Conference 2026

Dennis A. Wicker Civic Center
May 8, 2026
8:30 am - 3:30 pm

Did you know dementia is a condition where problems with brain function make it hard for a person to do everyday activities by themselves? It can be caused by several different diseases that affect the brain. Ask around, everyone you know knows someone with dementia. 

Whether you are new to caregiving for someone with dementia or have been doing it for years, this event is for you. 

Join us in person for education sessions, resource exhibitors, and networking with other care partners! Breakfast, lunch, and snacks will be provided. 

ANNOUNCING: YOU WILL NOW BE ABLE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE VIRTUAL DEMENTIA TOUR SIMULATION EXPERIENCE DURING THE CONFERENCE. This amazing simulation allows you to experience the sensory changes someone with dementia lives with. SPRING ARBOR will be leading this for us. 

AGENDA:

8:30 - 9:30 - Check-in, Breakfast (included), & Visit Resource Exhibitors 

9:30 - 9:45 - Welcome 

9:45 - 11:00 - Overview of Dementia

                      Melanie Bunn, RN, MS

11:00 - 11:15 - Break and Visit Exhbitors

11:15 - 12:00 - Advanced Funeral Planning Is For Everyone! 

                        Miller Boles 

12:00 - 12:45 - Lunch (included) and Visit Exhibitors

12:45 - 1:30  - Understanding & Planning for Dementia Care

                       Jennifer Tyner, Lead Care Manager, Care Manager Certified (CMC)

1:30 - 1:45 - Break and Visit Exhibitors 

1:45 - 2:30 - From Support to Strategy: What Happens When Brain Change Progresses

                    James Kappleman, CSA, CDP, Certified Senior Advisor

2:30 - 2:45 - Break and Visit Exhibitors 

2:45 - 3:30 - Community as Medicine/Engages Brains

                     Dr. Karen Sullivan, Ph.D., ABPP

3:30 pm - Wrap Up, Evaluations, Door Prizes, and Closing

4.0 CEUs for professional registrants are approved by the NC Division of Health Service Regulation- Adult Care Licensure Section.  For more information, visit their website. 
If you are unsure whether these credits apply to you, please check with your certifying board or association. 

Scholarships and respite assistance may be available for those who are active family caregivers in need of financial assistance. Please contact Addie Piper at apiper@dementianc.org or call at (919) 832-3732.