Hundreds gather in Des Moines for conference bringing education and recognition to direct care workers

Des Moines, Iowa (April 2, 2017)-More than 300 direct care workers statewide will gather in Des Moines April 10-11 for two days of educational sessions, networking and recognition supporting those who work in the direct care field so they, in turn, are there to support Iowans and their families during their times of need. The Iowa CareGivers 2017 Conference "Direct Care Riding the Wave" will be held at the Prairie Meadows Events and Conference Center, Altoona. As Iowa's population of Iowans needing assistance grows, the traditional source of new direct care workers-women aged 25-44-is projected to shrink, leaving Iowa with a critical shortage of workers, already being felt by many. "One of the goals of the conference is to keep people in the field," said Pam Biklen, Program Director of Iowa CareGivers. "From past conferences 84% of attendees say their attendance increases the likelihood that they will continue working in the direct care field; and 73% with their current employer. Attendees will hear from experts about such topics as food insecurity, seizure and stroke, dementia, diabetes, oral care, transgender care, depression, cultural competence, compassion fatigue, and much more. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in "Dementia Live(tm)" experiential learning, a real-life simulation of what it must be like to live with dementia. Participants gain greater awareness and understanding of the constant struggles affecting persons with dementia as they go about their daily lives. Participants have an opportunity for free health screenings, and a recognition reception on Monday afternoon honors and pays tribute to direct care workers, with awards and presentations to those who work in direct care and those who support the direct care workforce. Sponsors of the conference include Iowa Department of Public Health, Iowa Insurance Division, Delta Dental of Iowa Foundation, Mid-Iowa Health Foundation, Amerigroup Iowa, Allegra, and Field Paper. For more information, contact Pam Biklen at the Iowa CareGivers, (515)729-9729 or pam.biklen@iowacaregivers.org. The Iowa CareGivers (www.iowacaregivers.org) is an independent, nonprofit and nonpartisan statewide organization. It exists to ensure Iowans receive quality care and support when and where they need it through focusing on providing education, recognition, advocacy and research in support of direct care workers. - 30