The New River Valley Agency on Aging will hold their 14th Annual Caregivers Conference on Friday, Aug. 7, 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., in Edwards Hall, on the New River Community College Campus in Dublin.
The is a day full of support, education and community for caregivers. Attendance is free for volunteer and family caregivers and $35 for professional caregivers. Lunch is provided.
This year’s theme is “Practical Caregiver: Laying a Solid Foundation.”
The keynote speaker is Dr. Carey H. Peerman, Assistant Professor, Healthcare Administration Program, Radford University, and owner of Clear Edge, Consulting, LLC in Blacksburg, which provides continuing education, coaching services, and career development programs, particularly for medical and healthcare professionals. Dr. Peerman’s presentation reframes caregiving as both a human and structural challenge; explores how mindset, trust and team dynamics form the foundation for effective care; and addresses critical pressures such as burnout, decision fatigue and family expectations. Attendees will gain actionable strategies to strengthen team performance, build resilience, and create sustainable systems that support both caregivers and those they serve.
There will be three classrooms available:
Helping the Helper: How a Safe Home can Support Caregiving-lead by Chris Moore, Senior Remodeling Experts.
A Clear Foundation for Aligning Care Goals with Hospice Fundamentals-Nicole Thompson, Lewis Gale Montgomery Regional Hospital
Bird’s Eye View of Home and Community-Based Waivers lead by a 4-person panel.
The Closing Session, “Building YOU up” will be led by Gretchen Lawson, Chair One Fitness Instructor. This is a chair-based dance fitness program that incorporates activities of daily living into cool dance moves to keep people not only movin,’ but smilin.’
More than 40 industry and service exhibitors will be present to provide information about supports, equipment, planning, and resources designed to make caregiving an easier journey.
Lunch will be provided, including vegetarian and vegan options. Interested parties can visit the NRV Agency on Aging website, at nrvaoa.org, for quick and easy registration, and to download the day’s agenda. For more information, call the office at 540-980-7720.
NRV Agency on Aging
