Special Events
Please join us for our fourth dementia friendly shopping day with the Ann Arbor Kiwanis Thrift Sale, who kindly open their store during special hours JUST FOR US!
This event includes lunch from Jimmy John's and is free to attend (although each attendee is responsible for paying for her/his own purchases.) The Ann Arbor Kiwanis also provides volunteers to who help you navigate the huge store, or to hang out with those loved ones who prefer not to shop.​
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Please RSVP by April 17th to Chelsea at chelsea.dfsaline@gmail.com
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Learn more about the Ann Arbor Kiwanis Thrift Sale here.
Dementia Friendly Saline presents
the 2nd Annual
BEST LIFE
SPRING FAIR
Celebrating people with
dementia living their best lives
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Saturday, May 17th
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
at Liberty School
7265 N Ann Arbor St., Saline MI
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Our second Best Life Fair will feature live music and dancing, food, an art and craft sale, representatives from local organizations and health and aging-related businesses, and most importantly, educational presentations for care partners and families of a loved one with dementia. Free, on-site respite care will be available.
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PRESENTATIONS
Held in the auditorium at Liberty School
The Art of Redirection
10:30-11:30 a.m.
Presented by Joanna LaFleur, CEO of Memory Lane Foundation
The Art of Redirection is a powerful and practical session designed for caregivers and professionals supporting individuals living with dementia. In this engaging presentation, we’ll explore creative, compassionate techniques to gently shift behavior, reduce stress, and build trust through connection—not confrontation. Attendees will walk away with real-life strategies they can use immediately, grounded in dignity, empathy, and a little bit of humor.
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10 Essential Questions to Ask a Home Care Agency
12:00-1:00 p.m.
Presented by Isabelle Churchill, Director of Visiting Angels
Choosing the right home care agency is crucial for ensuring the well-being of your loved ones. This presentation outlines ten essential questions to ask when evaluating potential providers. From understanding caregiver qualifications to assessing emergency protocols and pricing structures, these key inquiries will help you make informed decisions with confidence. Whether you're seeking short-term support or long-term care, this guide will empower you to find a trustworthy and compassionate agency that meets your family's unique needs.
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Navigating Changes with Care Environment Choices
1:30-2:30 p.m.
Presented by Kathleen Garvey, OTRL
As care partners support their loved one, needs and abilities change. Figuring out next steps can be complicated, but it is always better to be proactive in planning to understand and access options best suited for the person living with dementia. From an occupational therapy lens, the presenter will share ideas about creating the just right fit to sustain well-being and optimal risk taking for meaningful engagement. Is the person living with dementia comfortable and safe where they reside? When might you consider formal residential care options? How do you go about choosing and transitioning? Establishing priorities and parameters, understanding what supports are needed or will be needed, and having contingencies are important. What will your care team strategies be?
We are still accepting vendors into our art and craft sale. If you're interested, please fill out this form.
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We are also seeking sponsors for this event!! Please email chelsea.dfsaline@gmail.com for more information.