Black/African American Caregiver Symposium in Philadelphia

Third Annual Black/African American Caregiver Symposium in Philadelphia 

The event will spark engagement and dialogue, while providing support and resources for dementia caregivers within Philadelphia’s Black / African American community.

On Tuesday, June 17, dementia caregivers and supporters across Philadelphia are invited to attend the Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter’s third annual Black & African American Caregiver Symposium. At this no-cost event, attendees will engage in an educational and dynamic program aimed at increasing awareness and providing resources and support for individuals caring for a loved one with dementia. Speakers, caregiving panelists and attendees will also engage in a dialogue around personal experiences, caregiving questions, and the needs of caregivers from Black/African American communities in Philadelphia.

It’s well reported that Black Americans are twice as likely as White Americans to have Alzheimer’s or another dementia, but they are less likely to receive a diagnosis. In fact, according to the Alzheimer’s Association Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, 65 percent of Black Americans say that they know somebody with Alzheimer’s or dementia, and 55 percent of Black Americans think that significant loss of cognitive abilities or memory is a natural part of aging rather than a disease—a common misconception about dementia.

Sessions in this symposium will focus on the caregiver identity and their health; Communicating effectively with family, friends and healthcare professionals; and Legal planning; a Caregiver Panel and Q&A, with a cognitive comedy workshop; among other topics—all with ready-to-use tips and tools for caregivers.