Pick up your name badge from the kiosk at the Renaissance Ballroom Foyer.

Breakfast at the Renaissance Ballroom Foyer.

Moderator: Mark Cimino, CEO, CiminoCare

Space limited. No CEUs. 
Kick your morning off with an elevating exchange of ideas and casual, thoughtful conversation around this important timely topic. Share your perspectives as you learn from the experience of your peers during this facilitated conversation. You’ll leave enlightened and uplifted as you head off to your first session of the day.

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Selena Coppi Hornback, Senior Director of Public Policy, CALA
Danielle Parsons, Vice President of Government Affairs, CALA

The governor and Legislature have acted on thousands of bills this year, including bills that address generators, Assisted Living Waiver and CalAIM “price controls,” and budget constraints. What do these outcomes mean for RCFEs and CCRCs?  Additionally, RCFEs are dealing with the implementation of the dementia care regulations and recent guidance around when to call 9-1-1. This session will cover new laws and implementation expectations as well as changes at DSS and emerging policy issues. Hear the latest and leave with a greater understanding of these critical issues.

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Stephen Brown, Senior National Director – Wellness Services, EnerG by Aegis Therapies
Emily Ridgely, National Director of Training and Customer Support, Aegis Therapies

Well-rounded program offerings can significantly impact residents’ well-being and the traditional activities of yesteryear – bingo, birthdays and bible study – no longer completely fit the bill. Success now lies in operationalizing your activity program through tracking and analyzing data, offering a diverse range of experiences, and building a strong interdisciplinary approach focused on residents’ quality of life regardless of dis/ability. This approach also holds the potential to enhance operational outcomes and marketability. Join this dynamic duo and explore useful tools, sample programming and next steps sure to complement and elevate your current offerings. 

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Lorne Epstein, Social Scientist, Electric Cow LLC

Research shows that when individuals are more aware of their decision-making process, they are more able to recognize factors that influence their thinking. This awareness can strengthen healthcare decision-making by helping practitioners consider a broader set of options to reach their intended outcomes. Join this experienced social scientist and educator in an experiential-learning session focused on understanding, recognizing and reducing unconscious, implicit biases that can interfere with identifying and meeting residents’ needs.

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Lance Bell, Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer, ServingIntel Inc.
Darin Leonardson, President and CEO, Transformed Culinary Solutions

Join this team of culinary experts and discover how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing dining by streamlining operations, improving resident experiences, and empowering staff to deliver exceptional experiences. Explore real-world applications of AI – from predictive analytics to personalized wellness solutions – and gain actionable insights and best practices for adopting innovative technologies. Whether you are a decision-maker or a technology enthusiast, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of how AI can drive meaningful improvements in operational performance and resident well-being.

Morning coffee break.

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Alan Nelson, EdD, Management Lecturer, Naval Postgraduate School
Nancy Nelson, Executive Director, Belmont Village Senior Living – Calabasas

What makes a team truly effective? Blending research-based models with real-world experience, these presenters tackle that question while offering practical insights into improving team communication, motivation and accountability. Through engaging stories, humor and hands-on activities, you’ll explore proven strategies for turning workplace challenges into opportunities for growth. Learn how to cultivate a collaborative culture, reduce turnover and build a high-functioning team that delivers exceptional care and walk away with tools you can immediately apply in your workplace.

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Pamela Kaufmann, Partner, Hanson Bridgett LLP
Joseph Shega, MD, Chief Medical Officer, VITAS Healthcare
Moderator: Sheila Clark, President & CEO, California Hospice and Palliative Care Association

Join these legal, medical and hospice experts as they explore end-of-life options available to residents and the ethical, practical and legal parameters and implications – from taking end of life drugs to voluntarily stopping eating and drinking, palliative sedation and more. This session will also explore how hospice agencies can partner with care teams to provide person-centered support and improve quality of life in residents’ final days. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the residents’ perspective and insights into honoring their wishes with compassion and care.

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Mark Cimino, CEO, CiminoCare
Paul Gordon, Partner, Hanson Bridgett LLP

ADA, Fair Housing and Civil Rights laws can impact not only physical environment but operational aspects. Join this attorney-provider duo as they examine the core principles of these laws along with real-world examples of how they apply in senior living communities. Using case studies, you’ll hear about the recent claims against California operators involving American Sign Language interpretation service and the legal responsibility to assist deaf and hard of hearing residents and prospective residents with their communication needs. You’ll leave better equipped to handle inquiry call “testers,” avoid common legal pitfalls and understand when communication aids are required.

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Dennis Bacopulos, CEO, The Vineyards, California Armenian Home
Dale Bredesen, MD, Chief Science Officer, Apollo Health

Join an internationally recognized neurologist and neuroscientist specializing in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and other dementias as he shares decades of research and promising results from non-pharmacological approaches to improving cognition. Learn how one provider adapted its culinary and lifestyle programs to align with Dr. Bredesen’s methods, including early participation in his RECODE protocols and preparation for full implementation. Gain first-hand insights into the challenges and benefits of adopting these methods including the plant-based KetoFLEX 12/3 diet and other lifestyle changes.

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Josh Steinmann, Vice President, AI & Robotics, KULR Technology
Tom Stevens, CEO and Co-founder, Tombot, Inc.
Patrick Tarnowski, Chief Commercial Officer, One Step / Celloscope Inc.
Moderator: Liz Jensen, PhD, Clinical Director, Direct Supply / Innovation & Technology Center

Step into the future of senior living with an interactive showcase of groundbreaking technologies designed to enhance communication, mobility and safety. Join leading innovators who are redefining the resident experience with cutting-edge solutions. You’ll explore: 

• Exia Exoskeleton, a revolutionary support to minimize risk of strain and injury in the caregiving workforce.
• One Step, an advanced gait analysis app that can capture critical changes in gait that increase risk for falls while providing feedback and intervention to address risk and generate meaningful alerts for caregivers.
• Tombot, a realistic, robotic animal that aims to reduce stress, offer meaningful connection, and improve quality of life for individuals unable to have or care for a live pet. 

Each presenter will provide an overview of their technology, demonstrating how it addresses key challenges in senior living. Gain firsthand insights into the impact of these solutions, ask questions, and leave with actionable knowledge on how to implement innovation in your community to enhance resident-centered care.

Take time before and after lunch to meet and network with exhibitors to learn about new products and services they have to offer. Please make sure to visit and thank each exhibitor as they contribute greatly to the success of the association.

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CCLD Program and Policy Leadership
Moderator: Heather Harrison, President & CEO, CALA

Join CCLD leadership as they discuss the ongoing implementation of dementia care regulations, as well as department priorities including actions being taken to improve CCLD processes that directly impact licensees. Attendees will pose their questions live, so be sure to submit a question or two in advance by emailing heather@CAassistedliving.org.

Afternoon dessert and coffee break.

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Nikki Ghisel, Head of Senior Engagement, Laughter on Call
Dani Klein Modisett, Founder/CEO, Laughter on Call

An MIT study found that health and happiness at work is not an afterthought, but rather the key drivers in our decision to accept, stay in or leave a job. Building a culture of levity, where people are encouraged to take the work seriously, but not themselves, is both achievable and impactful. As a leader, you have the power to shape this environment. Join this comedic duo as they share the keys to the “levity kingdom,” helping you foster inclusion, appreciation, and genuine joy in the workplace.

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Debbie Reilly, Senior Vice President of Sales – West, Belmont Village Senior Living
Brent Rodriguez, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, WellQuest Living LLC
Tricia Spacher, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Oakmont Senior Living

Are you looking to grow occupancy and build your sales pipeline? Join this dynamic panel of sales leaders as they share creative, data-driven strategies to help communities stand out in competitive markets. Learn how to enhance tour experiences, leverage digital marketing for lead generation, and optimize CRM use to boost lead management and conversions. You’ll leave with actionable insights to expand your sales funnel and close more deals with confidence!

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David Alfini, Partner, Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP
Leslie Kaderavek, Vice President TPA Services, Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC
Moderator: Sarah Mariuz, Vice President Business Insurance, Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC

Navigating the legal and regulatory landscape in senior living is one of the most challenging, albeit critical aspects of operating a community. Join this expert panel as they walk through a real-life case study from initial investigation through the management of the litigation. Key topics will include proper reporting to insurance and state licensing authorities, employee response and documentation after an incident, insurance coverage considerations and the development of policies, procedures and employee training to reduce future risk. You’ll leave with a clearer understanding of how to mitigate liability and strengthen your community’s preparedness.

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Sylvie Barak, Founder, Sex and Sensibility
Matthew Lefferman, DO, Medical Director, Access Healthcare Associates
Cassandra Moan, Executive Director, The Vered of Encino

Creating a safe, respectful environment to talk about intimacy is essential – but it’s often a topic that staff avoid due to discomfort or uncertainty. Join this trio as they share practical insights and strategies for supporting sex positivity, encouraging safe sexual practices, and addressing topics such as consent and intimacy in aging. You’ll gain tools to foster an inclusive environment where residents feel empowered to express their needs – and where staff feel confident supporting them with respect and sensitivity.

Sponsored by: Consonus Healthcare | IMA

Kick off your evening in style! Join us poolside at the East Pool Deck of the Renaissance Palm Springs for a lively reception under the desert sky for drinks and delicious appetizers while mingling with great company. Your first cocktail is on us! It’s the perfect way to start the night!