Dementia Care Innovation Summit: Exploring the Next Frontier in Brain Health and Dementia Care

Dementia Care Innovation Summit
Exploring the Next Frontier in Brain Health and Dementia Care
November 6, 2026; 8:30am-3:00pm
UNCW  Burney Center

The FREE Dementia Care Innovation Summit brings together researchers, healthcare professionals, caregivers, educators, community organizations, and innovators to explore the latest advancements in brain health and dementia care. Through expert presentations, research highlights, community resources, and interactive discussions, attendees will gain insights into innovative approaches that support healthy aging and improve the lives of individuals living with dementia and their care partners.

This year’s summit features keynote speaker Dr. Leonardo Bonilha, University of South Carolina, presenting “Brain Health in the Community: A Roadmap to Better Access,” and a featured workshop, “Sing for Life: How Choral Singing Supports Healthy Aging,” led by Joshua Vickery, CEO of Encore Creativity for Older Adults, followed by a performance by the Sentimental Journey Singers.

Objectives
• Explore emerging trends in brain health and dementia care.
• Learn practical strategies that support healthy aging.
• Discover community resources and support services.
• Connect with researchers, healthcare professionals, and community partners.
• Gain insights that can improve dementia care and community impact.
• Earn continuing education (CE) credits for a fee; details will be provided following registration

Presented by: LifeCare Memory Partners, UNCW College of Health and Human Services, SEAHEC, New Hanover Community Endowment 

Agenda at a Glance:

• 8:30 am: Registration Opens
• 9:00 am: Welcome
• 9:15 am: Keynote: Brain Health in the Community: A Roadmap to Better Access with Dr. Leonardo Bonilha, University of South Carolina 
• 10:30 am: Break
• 10:45 am: Workshop: Sing for Life - How Choral Singing Supports Healthy Aging with Joshua Vickory, Chief Executive Officer, Encore Creativity 
  • Sentimental Journey Singers 
• 11:45 am: Lunch 
• 12:30 pm: Brain Bites: Micro-presentations on Dementia and Brain Health (featuring local professionals and UNCW students) 
• 1:45 pm: Break 
• 2:00 pm: Local Resource Roundup
• 2:55 pm: Closing Remarks 

• UNCW faculty, staff, and students: Please park according to your current UNCW parking permit and its designated parking areas.
• Guests and visitors: Park in the UNCW Visitor Lot, 4941 Riegel Road, Wilmington, NC 28403
  We recommend allowing a few extra minutes for parking and walking to the Burney Center.