Registration

Welcome

KEYNOTE ADDRESS

SETTING YOUR SAILS FOR THE THREE SHIPS: STEWARDSHIP, LEADERSHIP & PARTNERSHIP

Ron Coristine

This session will investigate the concept of stewardship on behalf of older adults with developmental disabilities through the use of statistical data illustrating trends and flagging areas for attention.  Information will also include selected ADD initiatives in various jurisdictions, including Ontario in addition to anecdotal evidence about innovation and what is currently working.  Focus will be on the subsequent implications for service providers, planners and legislators and most importantly, next steps.

10:30-10:45

Break

NORM

Dr Jennie Wells, Al Fewster, Wendy Ness-Jack, Ian Ness-Jack and Laurie McAndrew

Panel Presentation- Perspectives of Supporters ~family, staff, physicians & consultants.  How do we help ensure we are providing the best and most appropriate support to people with Down Syndrome and Alzheimer’s

12:00 - 1:15

LUNCH & AWARD PRESENTATION

DOWN’S SYNDROME AND ALZHEIMER DISEASE

Dr Jenny Wells

Using case-based examples, Dr Well’s will discuss the challenges of assessment, cognition, function, behaviour, and treatment for persons with Down’s syndrome (DS) and Alzheimer Disease (AD).  Focus will also be made on challenges with assessment of people with DS and AD with the provision of recommendations on assessment tools.  Further, she will highlight the outcome of treatment with specific Alzheimer medications for this population within her own clinical practice. 

2:30 - 2:45

Break

SERVICE COORDINATION PROGRAM WITHIN LONG TERM CARE

Cia Addy & Kathy Peters

The Service Coordination Program facilitates supports to enhance the lives of people with developmental disabilities who are living in Long Term Care facilities, while serving as a resource to families and staff.  This session will describe the services offered through this unique program offered to individuals in London-Middlesex long-term care facilities. 

4:00 7:00 p.m.

NEW!

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS: TOOLS & RESOURCES FOR SUCCESSFUL AGING: Exhibition Session

This informal networking session will provide a forum for participants to learn about creative ideas, innovative and specialized services and community resources to support aging individuals successfully.  You won’t want to miss this opportunity to network with colleagues from the health and developmental sectors.  Hors d’oeuvres will be provided and a cash bar will be available for refreshments.

KEYNOTE ADDRESS

EVIDENCE BASED PRACTICE IN AGING AND DUAL DIAGNOSIS

Dr Kerry Boyd

This session focuses on important medical issues facing people with intellectual disabilities including: dual diagnosis; aging; particular pathologies; and care considerations. Participants will learn and appreciate the multiple factors affecting the well being of aging individuals who have an I.D. as well as the impact of psychotropic medications in the elderly.  Dr Boyd will outline an approach to treatment and provide observations regarding aging and dementia n the Down Syndrome population. The following issues will also be highlighted: a) the higher incidence of mental health problems among the population with intellectual disabilities; b) these problems may be multiple, even synergistic and contribute to distress or dysfunction; and c) certain treatments may compound presenting problems.

10:30 - 10:45

Break

PSYCHOSOCIAL IMPLICATIONS OF AGING IN PEOPLE WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES

Dr Bob Carey & Maureen Roberts

The increased longevity of persons with intellectual disabilities is the direct result of medical and social advances which have also extended the longevity of the general population.  Yet, people with intellectual disabilities are still generally regarded as a devalued class and often disadvantaged when attempting to access or secure social and health services.  In many areas of the country, older adults with severe and profound impairments are disregarded or institutionalized.  Housing is often inadequate and health provision neglected.  Older adults with mild intellectual impairments are often marginalized and not provided with even minimal supports needed to be productive members of their societies.  Older adults with co-morbid conditions experience particular problems and their compound, physical and/or mental health conditions are not addressed.  In addition, lifestyle choices and inadequate personal skills may have a major impact on their health and well-being. Sensory and mobility impairments, morbid obesity, poor oral hygiene, sexual behavior, and other lifestyle or personal attributes can also contribute to difficulties.  Adults with intellectual disabilities often experience premature aging and shortened life expectancy, particularly in persons with profound and multiple disabilities and, frequently those with Down Syndrome.  Life expectancy may also be compromised by poor health status and living conditions.  This workshop will focus on all of these issues and attempt to raise heightened awareness for the psychosocial issues confronting people with intellectual disabilities who are aging.

12:00 - 1:15

Lunch

Health Issues of Aging “Boomer” Individuals with Developmental Disabilities

Dr Greg Gillis

People with developmental disabilities have complex health issues that can be compounded by the aging process.  Adequate primary health care support is necessary to identify and address these issues.  Dr Gillis will discuss the health issues faced by people who are aging with references to the consensus guidelines for primary health care of adults with developmental disabilities.

2:15 - 2:30

Break

STOP That Stinkin’ Thinkin’…Now!

Michael Lewis

“There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so” – Shakespeare

“We are only as happy as we make our minds up to be” – Abraham Lincoln

This upbeat and motivational presentation makes the argument that we are our own guardians of good thinking and a positive life.  We are the sum and quality of our thoughts and a happier, more productive and optimistic life begins in thinking thoughts that take us forward.  We can choose how we interpret our challenges and the consequent way that we communicate to ourselves

3:45 - 4:00

WRAP UP