“Inclusive Aging in Alaska: Thriving and Growing Together,” is the theme for the 10th Annual Alaska Disability and Aging Summit hosted by the Alaska Disability and Aging Coalition, Oct. 8 and 9 in Anchorage. The summit will be hybrid again this year, with attendees joining in on Zoom and in person at the Special Olympics Alaska Jim Balamaci Training Center and Campus at 3200 Mountain View Drive.
The goal of the summit is to bring Alaskans together to further discuss the national and state trends regarding the aging population to include individuals with intellectual disabilities and how it relates to Alaska.
The increased life expectancy of individuals with intellectual disabilities marks a positive shift in societal attitudes and advancements in healthcare. Historical mistreatment and unethical practices have given way to improved life expectancies. This is a huge development that has now increased the gap in care for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD). This gap highlights the need for increased education, training and research on how to care for aging adults with IDD. The Disability and Aging Summit is a way for people to come together and explore the factors that have contributed to the improved life expectancy of individuals with IDD and to identify the challenges that remain in caring for this population as they age.
The two-day summit will include presentations on multiple topics including a keynote presentation on advocacy from Jennifer Keelan-Chaffins, known for her participation in the Capitol Crawl at just eight years old. There will also be sessions discussing disabilities and relationships, dementia, innovation in senior housing, advocacy in the hospitals and navigating end of life care. There will also be an action panel with local representatives and senators, and an elder panel discussing topics regarding the aging process and what they have done to age well. Additionally, a vendor fair will offer networking opportunities and resources for attendees from over 20 organizations from across the state.
For information, call 907-222-7625 ext. 612.
