EAST MIDDLEBURY RESIDENT Pamela Smith, left, posed for this photo with her daughter Eryn Smith at a gathering to discuss Alzheimer’s disease in 2022. She produced the documentary film “What it feels like to have Alzheimer’s,” which will be screened at Ilsley Library on Thursday at 11 a.m.
Photo courtesy of Meg Polyte

MIDDLEBURY — Everyone is invited to come see the debut of a locally produced film on Alzheimer’s disease followed by a panel discussion this Thursday at Ilsley Public Library in Middlebury. The event is from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

The film. “What it feels like to have Alzheimer’s, was envisioned, written, and co-produced by Pamela Smith after she recognized a lack of information or opportunity to express what it is like to live with dementia. The East Middlebury resident has been diagnosed with Younger Onset Alzheimer’s.

This 10-minute instructional film includes several pauses where viewers are invited to reflect on how they or those they love are experiencing some of the changes brought on by dementia.

Following the film there will be a panel discussion focusing on the making of the film and services available in Middlebury, the state’s first Dementia Friendly Community. Renee Ursitti from the Ilsley Library will share information about a Memory Cafe that will start in January. Kristin Bolton from Elderly Services’ Project Independence will talk about the Center for Positive Aging in Middlebury.

A community resource fair will be held at the end as attendees mingle and build community connections. This event is free and open to the public, including those with dementia.

This event is sponsored by Addison County Home Health and Hospice, AgeWell, At Home Senior Care, Dementia Friendly Middlebury, Eastview at Middlebury, Elderly Services Inc., Ilsley Public Library, Vermont Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.