To help ease stress and provide vital assistance to caregivers of those with cognitive impairment, the Town of Fountain Hills and Dementia Friendly Fountain Hills will host its second annual Dementia Caregiver Summit on Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025.

The program is titled, “Empowering Dementia Caregivers: Strategies for Support, Communication & Self-Care.” The goal is to offer skills, techniques and strategies to relieve the stress of caregiving, build resilience and find joy and hope while dealing with a long and difficult journey.

Statistics show dementia caregivers suffer chronic illnesses or die prematurely due to the stress associated with caregiving. It is estimated that Arizona’s population will soon exceed 150,000 people who have dementia and are over the age of 65.

The summit takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Fountain Hills Community Center, 13001 N. La Montana Drive.

“Being a caregiver is exceptionally draining, both mentally and physically,” said Fountain Hills Councilmember Peggy McMahon. “We hope this summit lets folks know they’re not alone, there are resources available and a whole community to lean on.”

Diseases grouped under the general term “dementia” are caused by abnormal brain changes. Dementia symptoms trigger a decline in thinking skills, also known as cognitive abilities, severe enough to impair daily life and independent function.

Several highly qualified and dynamic speakers will present and take questions from the audience. Vendors will also help connect those who attend with dementia caregiver related resources and/or services. A buffet breakfast is included with the event. As a bonus, attendees can attend a free virtual dementia tour the day before, on Friday, Feb. 7. Registration is required.

Full details and to register visit fountainhillsaz.gov/850/Dementia-Friendly-Fountain-Hills.