ARLINGTON – Whether it is a mental illness or another health risk of aging, dementia can have devastating effects on those who have it and their families.

As part of Sno-Isle Libraries’ ongoing Issues That Matter series, the Arlington Library is hosting “Families and Dementia,” 6:30 p.m., Nov. 9, at the Stillaguamish Senior Center, 18218 Smokey Point Blvd.

The community conversation will include a panel discussion with Arlington Mayor Barb Tolbert as moderator.

“More families are trying to cope with the issues that arise when a loved one has dementia,” Tolbert said.

Panelists will include Marilyn Enright, outreach social worker with the Stillaguamish Senior Center; Ruth Egger, of Homage Senior Services; Aime Fink, supervisor for the Long Term Care and Aging Administration for Snohomish County; and Hazel Borden, Snohomish outreach coordinator for the Washington chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. Borden said the Alzheimer’s Association’s helpline at 1-800-272-3900 is a good place to start. “We also offer in-home care consultations at no-charge,” Borden said.

The Arlington forum is the first in the 2017-18 Issues That Matter series focusing on aspects of mental health ranging from aging and brain injuries to troubled youth and teen depression and suicide. For details, librarian Kathy Bullene at 360-435-3033 or kbullene@sno-isle.org.