CARRYING OUR GRIEF:
2024 End-of-Life Virtual Conference Series
Dementia, Grief, and Caregiving November 21st, 2024 | 6-7:30 pm (MST)
Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia bring a unique and complex type of grief to families and communities. The uncertainty and lack of closure on what is often a very long road of slowly losing someone over time is an experience few are prepared to manage. In this session, we will discuss the concept of ambiguous loss and the challenges of caring for loved ones who are physically present and psychologically absent. We will explore the often-unrecognized role of being a family caregiver, the unique experiences of those who care for and love people who have dementia, and resources that are available to support this often difficult and emotional journey. Whether you are currently caring for someone, ever have, or ever will, you deserve support and care.
Sponsored by:
Watch our Recording
OUR PRESENTERS
Celeste Plumlee
Celeste Plumlee is the Program Director of the Meaning & Hope Institute, a part of Duet: Partners In Health & Aging, which supports family caregivers of people with dementia and other cognitive impairments. She is a social worker and advocate with a professional history of working in social services programming and public policy. Her mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease at 65, which made Celeste a caregiver overnight and started her down a challenging path of learning and growth. Her understanding of the difficult role of a family caregiver fuels Celeste's passion for educating and supporting others who share this responsibility.
Deb Seng
Deb Seng serves as the Director of Caregiving and Community Initiatives and has worked with Pima Council on Aging since 2019. Deb innovates programming to meet client needs and ensure excellent service delivery with a diverse 25-year history of caring for people. She also provides support and care to family members with a wide range of cognitive variations and limitations, including Alzheimer’s.
Nicole Thomas
Nicole Thomas, B.S. and M.Ed. from Northern Arizona University. Community Education Specialist at Dementia Capable Southern Arizona (DCSA). My role at DCSA focuses on spreading awareness of dementia and how to make the community more dementia-friendly as well as teaching useful strategies for caregivers.