Elder suicide risks, dealing with nursing homes and advance planning for disability and medical care are among the topics to be explored at an upcoming conference sponsored by Pathways in Kalispell.

 The third annual Western Montana Geriatric Care and Mental Health Conference will be held from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, Sept. 30 in the Buffalo Hill Conference Center at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

 Geared for registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, social workers, counselors, case managers and others involved with caring for the elderly with mental health needs, this year’s topic is “Preparing for Our Care.” Discussions will touch on elder suicide rates and risks, legal issues with elder care, the new Montana law on mental health advanced directives, the home health care system, the nursing home system and community resources available for elders.

 Speakers will include Whitefish social worker Mary Jane Fox, Whitefish attorney Randy Schwickert, Helena attorney Anita Roessmann, Home Options Manager Donna Bosch, Brendan House Operations Manager Kelly Bilau and ombudsman Susan Kunda.

 A networking lunch is part of the conference. Continuing nursing education credits and continuing education for social workers and counselors is available, at 5.25 contact hours for the day’s session.

 Registration is $25, and due to Pathways by Sept. 23. For more information or to register, call Kira O’Donnell at 751-6404.