Reading2Connect: Opening Doors for Memory Care

Join us for an inspiring conversation about Reading2Connect®, a groundbreaking program designed to bring back the joy of reading for adults living with dementia and other cognitive challenges. 

Darien Library is thrilled to welcome Susan Ostrowski, co-creator/owner of Reading2Connect®; Carolyn DeRocco, Vice President of Programs and Education at the Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Chapter; and Dawn Clark, Reflections Memory Care Director at The Residence at Selleck’s Woods. Together, they will explore how specially designed books and reading strategies can foster connection, spark memories, and enhance the quality of life for individuals in memory care. 

Learn how these resources can support caregivers, families, and professionals in creating meaningful engagement through reading.

During the event, Darien Library will officially launch its Reading2Connect® Book Collection, which can be found on the Second Floor in the Reference Room.

About the Presenters

Susan Ostrowski has an MA in remedial reading and an MS in speech pathology from Columbia University, Susan Ostrowski has worked in a variety of senior living settings. Susan is co-creator/owner of Reading2Connect®, an organization devoted to bringing back the joy of reading to adults living with dementia. 

She has contributed to multiple publications, including ASHA Perspectives Journal and Thieme Medical Communication Sciences Textbook. Susan is the recipient of the American Speech and Language Association Clinical Achievement Award, the Mather Institute “Promising Practices” Award, and the Dementia Society of America SMART Award.

Carolyn DeRocco is Vice President of Programs and Education at the Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Chapter. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Human Relations from St. Joseph’s College, Long Island NY with a Certificate in Counseling and Certificate in Human Services.  She has been employed at the Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Chapter for over 18 years. 

She has over 20 years of experience as a Therapeutic Recreation Director working with individuals with dementia in a skilled nursing facility and over 25 years’ experience as a support group leader working with individuals diagnosed with dementia and their caregivers.  She is a member of the Western Connecticut Area Agency on Aging Advisory Council and a former  board member of the Connecticut Geriatric Society.

Dawn Clark, CDP, CNA, NIDE, Reflections Memory Care Director, The Residence at Selleck’s Woods. Dawn Clark has dedicated the past 12 years of her career to serving individuals living with memory loss, with all of her experience focused exclusively on memory care. She holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Connecticut and is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Sociology. 

In addition to being a Certified Dementia Practitioner, Dawn is a Certified Nursing Aide and holds certification from the National Institute of Dementia Education. For the past six years, she has been an integral part of The Residence at Selleck’s Woods, gaining firsthand experience in engagement and care through a variety of roles, and now serving as Director of the Reflections Memory Care Neighborhood.