2026 Brain Aging Conference

Learn, engage and be inspired by the latest in care and treatment to help those with memory loss. This event is open to the public.
About this Event

Join us for 2026 Brain Aging Conference, which provides the latest information on caring for family, friends or others with memory loss.

Hosted by the , attendees will have a chance to hear from medical professionals from the Smith Alzheimer's Center, department leaders at SIU Medicine, as well as other caregivers on a range of topics surrounding memory loss.

There are also option for those living outside of Springfield to view the conference from around the state.

There are several presentations throughout the day to help you better understand dementia, why someone's behavior has changed, and how you can best help them. This is also a chance to ask presenters specific questions about your situation as well.

A number of local organizations and resources will also be available to share what services and programs they offer to the community.

There is no cost to attend, but registration is required as space is limited. We will see you October 29!

Agenda

🕑: 09:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Check-in & visit exhibitors
🕑: 10:00 AM - 10:05 AM
Welcome
Host: Erin Hascup, PhD
🕑: 10:05 AM - 11:05 AM
Update on Alzheimer's Disease
Host: Jennifer Arnold, MD, PhD
🕑: 11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
Myth Busters: What's True, What's Not About Memory Loss
Host: Expert panel
🕑: 11:45 AM - 12:05 PM
Music, Memory and Dementia Choirs
🕑: 12:05 PM - 01:05 PM
Lunch & visit exhibitors
🕑: 01:05 PM - 01:50 PM
Dementia Behaviors and Effective Communication
Host: Ann Jirmasek, LCSW
🕑: 01:50 PM - 02:35 PM
Caring for a Person with Late Stage Alzheimer's Disease
Host: Cindy Womack, DNP
🕑: 02:35 PM - 02:50 PM
Break
🕑: 02:50 PM - 03:20 PM
Caregiver Panel Q&A