2007 Epilepsy Today Conferences

Conference Dates, Times, & Locations

Metro Detroit Area Conference:  10/19/07, Sheraton Detroit Novi, Novi; 8 - 4
Grand Rapids Conference: 10/25/07, DeVos Place, Grand Rapids; 8 - 4:15
Kalamazoo Conference: 11/2/07, Fetzer Center, Kalamazoo; 8 - 3:15
St. Clair County Conference: 11/13/07, Thomas Edison Inn, Port Huron; 8 - 3:30

Continuing Education
Nurses - Participants may receive up to 5.6 contact hours as approved by Michigan Nurses Association.
Teachers, Administrators, School Psychologists  - Participants may receive a maximum of 0.5 State Board – Continuing Education Units.

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Conference Workshop Topics

Expert speakers will provide a wealth of information on a number of topics, including the following:

Current Treatments and Diagnoses for Epilepsy
The medical condition will be described in detail. The speaker will dispel many myths and stigmas associated with epilepsy. Current treatments (including various medications, surgery, Vagus Nerve Stimulator, and more) will be reviewed, as will their application in different adult and pediatric epilepsy syndromes.

Improving Memory, Attention and Cognitive Abilities: A Neuropsychological Perspective
The most common types of cognitive impairments experienced by people with epilepsy will be described, including memory loss and attention deficits. The speaker will identify possible contributing factors and describe strategies to compensate for or restore lost functions.

Transition from Youth to Adulthood: Planning for Independence
For parents of children with epilepsy and cognitive disabilities, transition from youth to adulthood often brings fear and uncertainty. This workshop will show how appropriate planning and community supports can facilitate this transition and maximize the young adult’s independence. The presentation will include information on special education law relating to transition, planning for self-sufficiency, community resources, and estate planning. Personal perspectives from parents will also be provided.

Epilepsy and Sleep
The relationship between epilepsy and sleep is complex but important. The speaker will discuss why getting enough high-quality sleep is essential for people with epilepsy, why it can be challenging to do so, and how it can be done. Specific sleep disorders associated with epilepsy and their respective treatments will also be described.

Complementary Therapies for Epilepsy
When used in conjunction with conventional treatments, a number of complementary therapies have the potential to enhance seizure control and overall well-being. This presentation will provide an overview of integrative medicine and highlight the potential risks and benefits of a variety of complementary therapies, including neurofeedback, relaxation techniques, dietary supplements, chiropractic techniques, transcranial magnetic stimulation, and behavioral therapies.

Epilepsy Open Forum/ Q&A
The neurologist will provide answers to challenging yet common questions s/he has received in clinical practice. In addition, conference attendees will have the opportunity to submit questions prior to and on the day of the conference, and these questions will be addressed by the neurologist. There will also be ample time for open discussion of issues related to epilepsy.

Employment Issues for People with Epilepsy
People with epilepsy are employed at a substantially lower rate than the general population. This workshop reviews potential barriers to employment for people with epilepsy and ways to overcome these barriers; employment law as it relates to epilepsy; and practical tips to help people with epilepsy find meaningful employment.

Depression and Epilepsy
The risk of depression in children and adults with epilepsy is three to five times higher than in the general population. Ms. Darroch will discuss the reasons for this increased risk as well as the potential consequences. Participants will also learn how to recognize signs of depression, how to protect against suicide, what they can do to promote recovery and prevent future episodes, and what treatments for depression are safe and effective in people with epilepsy.