The James L. West Center for Dementia Care will host its 2nd Annual Caregiver Symposium, Dementia Care Reimagined. Guiding the Way Forward, on February 24, bringing together care partners, professionals, and community members for a morning of education, connection, and practical guidance.
The free half-day event will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at The Great Hall at First Presbyterian Church in Fort Worth. Breakfast and lunch will be provided, and attendees may earn up to 4 continuing education credits for social work, nursing, or licensed professional counselors, or receive an attendance certificate.
Designed specifically for care partners of persons living with dementia, the symposium focuses on the real-world challenges families and professionals face as they navigate the dementia journey. Educational sessions will address topics such as: · Walking through grief while providing care · Responding with compassion during challenging moments · Connecting through communication · Incorporating new insights into brain health and risk reduction
The keynote address will be delivered by Janice A. Knebl, DO, MBA, a nationally recognized geriatrician and dementia expert. Her presentation, Progress in Dementia Diagnosis, Management and Care, will explore current developments in dementia care while emphasizing practical, person-centered approaches that support the quality of life of individuals living with dementia and their caregivers.
In addition to the keynote and expert-led breakout sessions, attendees will hear directly from families living with dementia through a panel sharing real voices and lived experiences from every stage of the journey.
Organizers describe the symposium as an intentional space for learning and encouragement. Rather than focusing solely on disease progression, the event emphasizes dignity, remaining abilities, and the emotional realities of caregiving. This approach aligns with the James L. West Center’s long-standing philosophy of prioritizing comfort, connection, and compassionate support throughout every stage of the dementia journey. As the number of individuals affected by dementia continues to grow, events like this symposium play an important role in equipping caregivers with knowledge, confidence, and community. By combining expert insight with practical strategies and shared experience, the symposium aims to help caregivers feel less isolated and more supported in their role.
Registration is open, and seating is limited. Care partners and professionals interested in attending can register online at jameslwest.org/symposium or by calling 817-541-5975.
About the James L. West Center for Dementia Care For 32 years, the James L. West Center for Dementia Care, a not-for-profit organization, has served those impacted by dementia. Established by Eunice West in honor of her late husband, James L. West, who passed away from dementia, the Center continues to build on its excellence in compassionate care and caregiver and dementia education by expanding its service lines to meet the community’s needs. The Center offers residential care, a Senior Day Program, Short-Term Respite Care, Short-Term Rehabilitation, and professional and family caregiver education, which was recently rebranded as Dementia-IQ Powered by James L. West.
