Impacts of Alzheimer’s and Dementia on the LGBTQAI+ Community

Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias affect individuals and families across every community, but LGBTQAI+ older adults and their caregivers may face unique challenges when navigating diagnosis, care, support services, and long-term care.

Join the Illinois Continuity of Care Association – Lake East Chapter for an important conversation exploring the Impacts of Alzheimer’s and Dementia on the LGBTQAI+ Community, presented by Amelia Garza, MBA, MA, CFRE, Senior Manager of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion with the Alzheimer’s Association, Illinois Chapter.

This presentation will help aging-industry professionals better understand the experiences of LGBTQAI+ older adults living with dementia and the importance of providing welcoming, culturally responsive, person-centered care and support.

Topics will include:

• The impact of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias within the LGBTQAI+ community
• Unique challenges LGBTQAI+ older adults and caregivers may encounter when seeking care and support
• The role of chosen family and support networks in dementia care
• Barriers that may affect access to healthcare, senior living, and community resources
• Creating inclusive and welcoming environments for LGBTQAI+ older adults and their caregivers
• Resources available through the Alzheimer’s Association for individuals, families, caregivers, and professionals

Whether you work in senior living, healthcare, home care, hospice, social services, financial services, or another area of aging services, this presentation will offer valuable insight into how we can better recognize and respond to the needs of every individual and family we serve.

About the Presenter

Amelia Garza, MBA, MA, CFRE (she/her/hers) serves as Senior Manager of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the Alzheimer’s Association, Illinois Chapter. Her work focuses on advancing the Association’s mission through community engagement and efforts to ensure Alzheimer’s and dementia education, care, support, and resources reach diverse communities throughout Illinois. Amelia is also an active supporter of the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s and the organization’s mission to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia.

Event Details

Topic: Impacts of Alzheimer’s and Dementia on the LGBTQAI+ Community
Presenter: Amelia Garza, MBA, MA, CFRE, Senior Manager, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Alzheimer’s Association, Illinois Chapter
Date: Thursday, October 22, 2026
Time: 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Location: New Summit Thrive Lake Co.
850 US Highway 45
Mundelein, IL 60060