ELKINS, W.Va. – Vandalia Health Davis Medical Center will offer a free workshop, Dealing with Dementia, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4, at the Davis Medical Center Education Office, 100 Main St., Elkins.
The workshop, designed for people caring for family members with dementia, is free and open to the public. Registration is required by Oct. 19, and space is limited.
Offered through Davis Medical Center’s Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders (NICHE) program, the workshop was developed by the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving. It provides practical tips and strategies to help caregivers care for their loved ones while supporting their own well-being.
Participants will learn about dementia, strategies for managing dementia-related behaviors and ways to incorporate stress management and self-care into their daily lives. Each participant will receive a copy of the Dealing with Dementia guide, which includes more than 300 pages of information and solutions to everyday caregiving challenges.
Many family members take on caregiving responsibilities without formal training or education. While caregiving can be a rewarding expression of love, its physical and emotional demands can be challenging. The workshop aims to support local families by helping caregivers build knowledge, confidence and habits that support their well-being.
“Caring for a loved one with dementia can feel overwhelming, especially when families are navigating new challenges without training or support,” said Kim Haher, RN, BSN, Gero-BC, of Vandalia Health Davis Medical Center. “This workshop offers practical tools caregivers can use at home and reinforces that caring for themselves is an essential part of caring for their loved one.”
Davis Medical Center holds Exemplar designation through the NICHE program, its highest level of recognition for excellence in caring for older adults. The hospital first earned NICHE designation in 2016, achieved Exemplar status in 2024 and received redesignation in 2026.
Through education, evidence-based practices and collaboration across care teams, the program helps address the unique needs of older patients and supports their families and caregivers.
To register for the workshop, call 304-704-9065 by Oct. 19.