Dementia isn't an easy subject, and then ageism makes it worse. Ageism gets in the way of talking about dementia and adds more stigma to an already misunderstood condition. Internalized ageism can even increase the risk of dementia.

Join us to learn about misconceptions about dementia and aging and how we can change our beliefs as well as better support those experiencing dementia. This will be an interactive session and questions are welcome!

Experts in the field, Dr. Michelle Olson, Danelle Hubbard and Mary Fridley will share examples of how their work helps mitigate ageism (and ableism) through creative expression and nature. Attendees will gain tangible insights into ways to live fully by fostering age-diverse relationships. Learn how to support and honor people living with dementia.

To register:

Complete the form on this page, and click on the RSVP button. You'll receive log-in instructions in the Reply email after you register, and also in a Reminder email 24 hours before the workshop from info@changingthenarrativeco.org.

Read about our panelists:

Dr. Michelle Olson, Social Gerontologist, licensed and board-certified nature-based creative arts therapist, certified Montessori Dementia Care Professional, and a Certified Forest Therapy Guide. Michelle is the Founder/Executive Director of Evergreen Minds where they believe that everyone has the right to regularly experience fresh air, sunshine and the change of seasons. This should not change because we grow older or develop dementia. Their mission is to offer people living with dementia opportunities for meaningful connections and pathways to physical, cognitive, and emotional health through mindful and body-full immersions in nature and expressive arts. They also work to reduce the stigma and misconceptions that often surround dementia.

Danelle Hubbard, Gerontologist and Social Worker, with over 20 years of experience in the field of aging specializing in Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. She is the Health Systems Director at the Alzheimer’s Association for the states of Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. She supports health systems with strategies for dementia risk reduction, increasing the accurate and early detection of dementia, and improving the quality of care delivered to patients and their families.  Throughout her career in aging, Danelle has engaged in a variety of roles including private duty caregiver, activity director for an adult day center, case manager, administer for statewide program operations, executive director of an assisted living, and multiple roles in Care and Support at the Alzheimer’s Association.

Mary Fridley is on the faculty at the East Side Institute in NYC, co-creator and leader of The Joy of Dementia (You Gotta Be Kidding!) and coordinator of Reimagining Dementia: A Creative Coalition for Justice. Mary practiced social therapy for 12 years and uses the social therapeutic approach as an experienced teacher and workshop leader. She is author or co-author of several articles and chapters, has been interviewed by numerous media outlets and presented at national and international conferences on the Joy of Dementia and on the Coalition. Additionally, Mary is a guest columnist for agebuzz.com and a playwright and theater director.

Looking forward to having you join us!

Your friends at Changing the Narrative