To make up for that, Cal State Northridge invites family caregivers for a day of education, information and relaxation at the 3rd Annual "For All You Do, This Day's For You," Saturday, March 20, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the university's Grand Salon.

The conference will consist of uplifting speakers that will show caregivers how they can take care of themselves so they can continue taking care of their loved ones as well as renewal activities such as a chair massage, a drum circle and yoga session.

"We will show caregivers ways to re-energize, to stay upbeat and unbeatable," said Debra Sheets, Northridge health sciences professor and event coordinator.

"Caring for a loved one takes time and stamina," she said. "Caregivers can help their loved ones by taking care of themselves so that they don't experience burnout, isolation and frustration."

Event speakers will teach caregivers to use humor to cope with stress, and being a care partner with your care recipient. A special panel of caregivers and care recipients with Alzheimer's disease will discuss their personal experiences.

"Family caregivers are the primary source of support for 95 percent of older adults who need help to remain in the home. If they don't take care of themselves, then their loved one can end up needing to be institutionalized prematurely," Sheets said. "Caregivers need to take care of their own health and know how to manage stress so that they can continue to help their loved ones."

"For All You Do, This Day's For You," sponsored by the San Fernando Valley Office of the Alzheimer's Association and Cal State Northridge's Interdisciplinary Gerontology Program, requires pre-registration, by Monday, March 15, and a $10 donation that will pay for parking, a continental breakfast and a catered luncheon.

CSUN is located at 18111 Nordhoff St. in Northridge. The Grand Salon is located near the east side of campus in the university's student union. Conference parking is in lot G4, off of Zelzah Avenue.

For more information about the conference or to pre-register, call Arturo Montenegro at (818) 677-4404 or e-mail arturo.montenegro@alz.org.