By Debbie Ludington

Are you caring for a family member or loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or another medical problem? Is it a struggle at times? Do you feel isolated and alone, particularly during the pandemic? Information and support are available.

The city’s Division of Aging and Adult Services is once again co-sponsoring the 34th annual Caregivers Conference, “Grow with the Flow – Learn, Adapt, Thrive,” which will be held virtually Nov. 9 through 13 from 10 a.m. to noon daily. People who care for or work with people with dementia are encouraged to attend any or all of the virtual sessions. They are all free of charge.

Virtual speakers include Martin J. Schreiber, former Wisconsin governor and author of “My Two Elaines: Learning, Coping, and Surviving as an Alzheimer’s Caregiver;” Ana Nelson, vice president of programs and services for the Alzheimer’s Association National Capital Area Chapter; Dr. Chiadi U. Onyike, Johns Hopkins Medicine; and Ron Culberson, social worker humorist.

The 34th annual Caregiver Conference recognizes the struggles of caregiving during a pandemic and will provide valuable information on understanding dementia, ways to help yourself and your family members, activities you can do at home and more. Conference attendees will be able to learn even more from the 40 plus vendors who will be on hand in the virtual exhibit hall. Door prizes will be given away each day and mailed to the winners.

There is no cost for the conference, but registration is required at www.nvdcc. com. Professional CEU’s are available for attendance. Please call 703-270-0043 for more information about the conference or to request one-to-one technical assistance prior to the conference for help figuring out Zoom.

For more information about services for older adults and their families residing in the City of Alexandria, call 703-746-5999 or visit www.alexandriava.gov/aging.

The writer is long term care coordinator in the Division of Aging and Adult Services.