Registration costs are reduced for the symposium “Together We Care: Uniting Families and Professionals Across the Lifespan.”
The symposium will be held in-person on Friday, June 26, at the Scott Conference Center in Omaha. Registration is open until June 19.
Nationally, there is a caregiving crisis, as the system relies on care found outside of the healthcare system. Family caregivers provided 49.5 billion hours of care in 2024, according to research on the topic, with more than half performing medical and nursing tasks, often without formal training. Additionally, research shows that:
- 79% say they were not prepared for the caregiving role.
- 55% lack confidence in the care they provide.
- 67% report not receiving enough help — or any help at all.
There also is a lack of knowledge across healthcare team members about how to help improve their patient and family caregiver situation.
This symposium aims to fill these gaps. The inaugural event is planned with healthcare professionals, social service providers, organizational leaders and family caregivers from across the region in mind. This full-day accredited continuing education event will provide a new opportunity to explore practice, interdisciplinary solutions for both immediate and long-term caregiving challenges.
Speakers and topics include:
- Kim Whitmore, PhD, from Marquette University, who will explore caregiving trends, growing demands and gaps in support.
- UNMC’s Steven Wengel, MD, will discuss how isolation and disconnection impacts mental health and strengthening connection between caregivers and those they care for.
- Michele Magner will show how to use a simple, step-by-step framework to help make decisions, navigate challenges and connect to resources and community support.
- A panel of caregivers will share real-life experiences that will help learners better understand challenges, gaps and opportunities to improve support.
- Seamus Kelly, JD, will explore the legal landscape of caregiving by interpreting denials, navigating next steps and strengthening advocacy for those cared for.
- Kay Glidden will cover why self-care isn’t selfish — it’s survival, especially when it comes to helping to care for loved ones and patients.
This accredited continuing education activity is designed for nurses, social workers, healthcare administrators, care coordinators and informal family caregivers. For more information and to register, click here.
Both in-person and livestream registration options are available. By using the discount code, WECARE2026, attendees will save with fees between $20 for in-person students and $90 for healthcare professionals online. Registration includes breakfast, lunch and CE credit.
Deadline to register is Friday, June 19. For assistance with online registration, email Courtney Smith. To receive a flyer to post at a clinic or upcoming community event, also email Courtney Smith.