A panel discussion on Alzheimer’s disease and similar cognitive illnesses will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 23 at the Pottsville Senior Community Center, 201 N. Centre St.

Focused on “help, hope and understanding,” the discussion is sponsored by Diakon Community Services, Independent Living Services and the Schuylkill County Office of Senior Services.

Panelists will be Debbie Herb of Diakon, facilitator; Jessica Bova of Lehigh Valley Health Network; Michele Linder of Precision Health; Jennifer Drake, Independent Living Services; Deanna Orlowsky, Office of Senior Services; Desiree Dunleavy from Shenandoah Manor; Ellen Popson, Life Geisinger; Phyllis Gallagher, caregiver; Richard Hadesty, St. Luke’s Nursing and Rehab; Ashley Vigoda of Providence Place; and Regina Wozniski of Compassus Hospice.

Jennifer Rose Serfass of Arden Courts will also lead a virtual tour created to help understand the physical and mental challenge of those with Alzheimer’s disease or similar illness.

The event will include dinner, to be served at 5:30, although people may attend the panel session without participating in the dinner.

To register for the event, people should call Diakon at 570-624-3016. Dinner reservations must be received by Oct. 7.

Although the event is free, donations to help defray costs will be accepted.