Connections Series: Communication Strategies for Dementia Caregivers
Venue: Warm Hearth Village Center, Blacksburg
Date: Friday, February 20, 2026
Time: 2:00 - 3:00 PM
Event Types: Speaking Engagements
Cost: Free
Description:
Warm Hearth Village continues their Connections Series with the topic "When Words Fail: Communication Strategies for Dementia Caregivers" on Friday, February 20, 2026 at Warm Hearth Village Center.

Join us for a meaningful and practical program led by Joanna Swift Culligan, MA, MT-BC, as she shares helpful strategies for connecting when words are hard to find. Caring for someone with dementia can be challenging especially when communication becomes difficult. You’re not alone, and support is available.

As dementia progresses, the impact is far reaching for the person living with the disease and those who care for them.

In this program, attendees will learn about how communication can change dues to dementia, and how to adapt communication to support this. This program will teach practical strategies and approaches to support changes to communication style to help maintain relationships and comfort as we navigate the journey.

Whether you’re a caregiver, family member, or community member, this program offers insight, encouragement, and hope.

Joanna Swift Culligan is a parent, partner, music therapist and faculty administrator at Virginia Tech, where she serves as the Director of the Engagement Center for Creative Aging. She specializes in supporting individuals with dementia and their care partners through evidence-based musical approaches. Jo is passionate about reducing stigma around aging and inspiring the next generation of gerontology professionals.

Admission is free and all are welcome.

Warm Hearth Village Center is located at 2387 Warm Hearth Drive in Blacksburg, VA.

To view the event flyer, visit: https://i.postimg.cc/9MF8KpRK/image.png.

For more information, visit: http://www.retire.org or https://www.facebook.com/WarmHearthVillage or call 540-552-9176.