Kalispell to host Governor's Conference on Aging

Nearly a quarter of Flathead County residents are over the age of 60, and the graying trend is showing no signs on slowing down. By 2025, the 60-plus population is expected to hit 26.8 percent, up from 24 percent in 2013, further increasing demand for medical services, according Flathead County’s Agency on Aging.

Montana’s growing elderly population will be a focal point of the 49th annual Governor’s Conference on Aging, scheduled for Sept. 7 and 8 in Kalispell. Registration for the two-day session is $50, which will include lunch both days along with presentations on topics ranging from family caregiving, abuse and neglect of seniors and Alzheimer’s care.

The conference will kick off at 8 a.m. September 7 at the Red Lion Hotel Kalispell with opening remarks, following by a presentation on family caregivers and the challenges associated with caring for a loved one. At 9:45 a.m., an Adult Protective Services panel will take the stage to discuss new approaches for combating abuse and neglect within the elderly community, followed by a lecture on creating moments of joy while living with Alzheimer’s.

The lunch hour will be devoted to celebrating 119 Montana centenarians. Montana Gov. Steve Bullock will present certificates of honor to 10 of the state’s 100-year-old and older men and women. In 2016, 142 centenarians were honored. By 2025, the state is estimated to be home to more than 3,000 residents over 100, up from 175 in 2010 according to census data.

In the afternoon, attendees will split up into break-out sessions on topics such as renter’s rights, oral health, scam alerts and veterans issues. A no-host bar an appetizer reception will be held at 6 p.m. and day one will round out with a concert featuring troubadour Jack Gladstone at 7 p.m.

On Friday, attendees have the option of an early breakfast between 7-8 a.m. for an additional $7.95 before the second round of conferences begins at 8:30 a.m. with a presentation on the country’s growing aging population and associated challenges. The program will conclude with a mini grant award presentation and box lunch at noon.

Attendees are encouraged to register in online by Aug. 31 so organizers can get an accurate head count for meals by visiting http://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/aging/GovernorsConferenceonAging. Same-day registration is available, but not advised.

Reporter Mackenzie Reiss may be reached at 758-4433 or at mreiss@dailyinterlake.com.