Description

While individuals with intellectual disabilities experience grief when they lose a loved one just like everyone else, it can sometimes be a challenge to provide support if perceived barriers are not overcome.

Perhaps the individual finds communication challenging, or perhaps he or she wants to talk about the loss constantly. Perhaps a family member, friend, or religious leader incorrectly assumes the individual does not understand the concept of death and so the grief process goes unrecognized.

This panel discussion will explore the topic of supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities as they cope with loss through the expertise of a social worker, a hospice chaplain, a hospice nurse, and a family member. It is intended that families, religious leaders, and service providers will be provided with strategies and resources to assist with the process of grief.

Lunch will be provided (limited number, so arrive early).

Sponsored by Alive Hospice and the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities.