Empowering Dementia Care: Assistance Home Care Proudly Sponsors the “More Than Memory Loss” Continuing Education Event

At Assistance Home Care, we believe that supporting individuals and families impacted by dementia starts with education, compassion, and collaboration. That’s why we were honored to serve as a session sponsor at the More Than Memory Loss: Understanding Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia Continuing Education Event, hosted by Memory Care Home Solutions in partnership with Saint Louis University School of Medicine/Family Center for Healthy Aging on April 25, 2025.

Held at the Saint Louis University Learning Resource Center, this impactful event gathered healthcare professionals, care partners, and community organizations together to deepen understanding of one of the most challenging aspects of dementia care: managing behavioral and psychological symptoms. It was an inspiring day full of insights, strategies, and shared commitments to making life better for those living with memory loss.

About The Event

When people think of dementia, memory loss is often the first symptom that comes to mind. However, those who live with and care for individuals with dementia know it is often the behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as agitation, aggression, depression, anxiety, hallucinations, and wandering, that pose the greatest challenges.

The More Than Memory Loss event aimed to fill critical gaps in knowledge and practice by offering an evidence-based, holistic look at how these symptoms manifest and how care partners can better respond. The event’s curriculum encouraged attendees to go beyond medication, focusing on environmental adjustments, communication strategies, and supportive interventions that promote dignity and enhance quality of life.

Event Highlights and Key Takeaways

The agenda for the day was thoughtfully curated to deliver actionable information. Here are a few highlights:

• Dr. David Carr, MD, a leader in geriatric medicine, shared important updates on the pharmacological treatment of behavioral symptoms. His talk emphasized caution in medication use and the value of non-drug approaches as first-line strategies whenever possible.

• Melissa Smith, MSOT, OTR/L, and Mackenzie Jones, BS, offered a dynamic session exploring how changes in the brain can lead to catastrophic behaviors. They stressed the importance of context, environment, and unmet needs when interpreting behaviors that might otherwise seem unpredictable.

• Ann Marie Mohr, through an engaging and hands-on session, demonstrated how communication techniques, including elements of improvisational theater, can be powerful tools to de-escalate tension, foster trust, and create moments of joy.

• The day concluded with a heartfelt and eye-opening Caregiver Panel Discussion, moderated by Jill Cigliana, MSOT, OTR/L. Family members shared their lived experiences, providing valuable real-world perspective on the day’s clinical content.

Throughout the day, there was a clear emphasis on person-centered care, seeing beyond the disease to the person who remains, and building caregiving strategies around their history, preferences, and strengths.

Assistance Home Care’s Role in Supporting Dementia Education

As a leading provider of in-home support for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, Assistance Home Care is deeply committed to ongoing education. This commitment extends to our team members, the families we serve, and the broader community.

Sponsoring a session at the More Than Memory Loss event was a natural fit for our mission. We believe that the better we understand the journey of those we serve, the better care we can provide. Events like these help equip professionals, family caregivers, and advocates with the tools and confidence they need to meet each day with empathy, skill, and resilience.

Our Team left the event energized and inspired to continue advancing best practices in dementia care within our own services. We are proud to champion ongoing education across the St. Louis and Chicagoland communities.

The Road Ahead: Education and Support are Key

If there is one thing the More Than Memory Loss event made clear, it is that no one should have to navigate the challenges of dementia alone. Education and connection are essential.

We encourage all professionals, caregivers, and community members to explore the incredible resources offered by Memory Care Home Solutions. Their dedication to empowering families through coaching, consultation, and training makes a real and lasting difference every day.

➡️ Learn more about Memory Care Home Solutions and upcoming events by visiting memorycarehs.org.

If you are supporting a loved one living with dementia and feel overwhelmed, Assistance Home Care is here to help. Our trained Care Professionals specialize in dementia care, providing the support you need to help your loved one age safely and comfortably at home. We are here to give you the peace of mind you deserve.

➡️ Discover how Assistance Home Care can support your family by connecting with our Team and requesting a complimentary consultation.

Together, through education, collaboration, and heart, we can build a better future for all those impacted by memory loss.