Idaho State University to host 13th Annual Thomas Geriatric Symposium for Pocatello/Chubbuck and Treasure Valley Area Older Adults

The 13th Annual Thomas Geriatric Symposium on Wednesday, Oct. 11 will include a keynote address on the topic of dementia, a panel discussion from experts across the state, and culminate in a roundtable discussion of care-related issues by students in various health programs and older adults from the community. Lunch will be provided for seniors (RSVP requested).

“We are continuously working to improve access to health care and health information for older adults in the Pocatello, Chubbuck, and Treasure Valley communities as well as the surrounding areas,” says Chris Owens, associate vice president for health sciences at ISU, and chair for the symposium planning committee. “Additionally, holding the symposium in both Pocatello and in the Treasure Valley brings valuable information for older adults and their loved ones and caregivers to multiple areas across the state. We are very fortunate to enjoy ongoing support for this event from so many people, including the generosity of donor who highly values this kind of community engagement and who wishes to remain anonymous.”

A keynote presentation will begin the event, titled “More than the Medications: A Comprehensive Look at Dementia Care,” given via distance learning technology by Dr. Megan Carr, PharmD, BCPS, BCGP, who is an assistant professor of Clinical Sciences-Geriatrics at High Point University in North Carolina.

A panel discussion titled “Caregiving and Resources for People with Dementia” will be moderated by Sarah Toevs, PhD, professor and director for the Center for the Study of Aging at Boise State University.

Panelists include:

• Gina Hubbard, Supervisor of Information Assistance, Area Agency on Aging
• Joanne Trammel, MS, OTR/L, Clinical Senior Instructor, Idaho State University
• John Holmes, PharmD, MPH, BCPS, Assistant Professor, Idaho State University
• Melody Weaver, PhD, APRN, FNP-BC, Clinical Assistant Professor, Idaho State University
• Tiffany Robb, MS, Health Program Manager - Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) program, Idaho Department of Health and Welfare

In addition to the keynote presentation and panel discussion, the symposium offers older adults the opportunity to interact with ISU students studying in one of over 30 health sciences programs available at Idaho State University.  A case study with students and older adults provides an interactive platform for idea and knowledge sharing at both locations. 

Over the years, the symposium has provided services and health information to hundreds of older adults and  organizers expect increased participation for this year’s symposium. It will take place on Wednesday, October 11 in both Pocatello and Meridian, ID.

• Pond Student Union Building (SUB) Ballroom and Little Wood River Room
• 1080 S 5th Ave, Pocatello, ID 83209
• ISU Meridian Sam and Aline Skaggs Health Sciences Center, Rooms 738/742
• 1311 E. Central Drive, Meridian, ID 83642

View the full agenda and presentation topics, or register to attend at isu.edu/healthconf.