The Inclusive Care Conference at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) is back, and it’s as relevant as ever. This year marks the 10th anniversary of an event that brings together healthcare professionals, caregivers, and community partners to discuss how to provide better care for older adults.
Set for March 4, the conference runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET and is entirely virtual. It’s free to attend and offers continuing education units for a fee. The focus this year is on “Caring for Aging Populations,” an increasingly urgent topic as the number of Americans aged 65 and older is expected to reach nearly 90 million by 2050.
Chris Smith, Dean of the UTC College of Nursing, highlights the unique nature of the conference. “Every health professional will encounter older adults with complex needs,” he says. The event aims to equip providers with the knowledge and partnerships necessary to serve this demographic effectively.
The conference will feature a variety of speakers from well-known organizations, including Jane Carmody from The John A. Hartford Foundation and Megan Wolf from Trust for America’s Health. Their insights will address critical issues like dementia, late-life depression, and strategies for caregiving.
Farron Kilburn, one of the original conference organizers, emphasizes how important community collaboration is for effective care. “We want to meet real needs in our community,” she says, noting that past themes have addressed different health disparities, from rural health to mental health support.
The conference’s format has shifted to virtual since the pandemic began. This change allowed for greater participation and has been well-received based on gathered feedback. Attendees appreciate the flexibility of accessing sessions online.
Beyond the conference, UTC has created lasting resources for the community, like the Chattanooga Care Connector. This online directory simplifies finding free and low-cost health services, making it easier for both providers and individuals to access essential resources.
The conference not only focuses on immediate care needs but also serves as a platform to form partnerships for long-term support. This year’s event is expected to see strong participation from social service agencies and religious organizations dedicated to healthy aging.
If you’re interested in improving care for older adults, this conference offers invaluable insights and resources for all involved. For more details, you can check the conference website here.
As our society continues to age, events like the Inclusive Care Conference are essential for building a stronger support system for one of our most vulnerable populations.
