Special Evening Performance: Dementia Man, An Existential Journey
Wednesday, September 30th, 6:00pm
Hine Hall Auditorium, Indiana University-Indianapolis
REGISTRATION FOR THE INPCS ANNUAL MEETING INCLUDES ADMISSION TO THIS PERFORMANCE.
"...[Samuel A. Simon's] story comes to life so vividly that one almost forgets there is one man on stage with a script. Sam’s story offers a raw, unfiltered view into the challenges one faces when beginning to lose cognition, including the fear of the unknown; the urgency of the decisions that have to be made; and the tribulations of navigating a broken healthcare system all while balancing the desire to live a full life, a comfortable life, and a life of service to others... Although a running theme throughout this performance is the fear of vanishing to nothingness, the standing ovation that this performance has already received demonstrates that Sam’s story will leave a lasting impact on those who see it. "
- Broadway World Review
As part of the INPCS Annual Meeting in Indianapolis, attendees are invited to a special performance of Dementia Man, An Existential Journey, an award-winning one-man theatrical production written and performed by Samuel A. Simon. The play is based on Simon's personal experience living with Alzheimer's disease and explores the profound questions of identity, meaning, purpose, and connection that arise following a diagnosis of cognitive decline.
Blending storytelling, humor, advocacy, and reflection, Dementia Man offers a powerful and deeply human perspective on life with a neurocognitive disorder. Rather than focusing solely on loss, the performance challenges audiences to envision a future in which individuals living with dementia continue to experience dignity, purpose, and meaningful engagement.
This unique event speaks directly to the heart of neuropalliative care, inviting clinicians, researchers, patients, care partners, and advocates to consider what it means to live well in the face of serious illness. The performance has received national recognition, including the 2023 Dementia Arts Impact Award.
Join us for an unforgettable evening that combines art, lived experience, and a vision of compassionate care.
For more information about the performance, visit the Dementia Man website.
REGISTRATION FOR THE INPCS ANNUAL MEETING INCLUDES ADMISSION TO THIS PERFORMANCE.
This event is made possible through the generous support of:
About Sam Simon
Samuel A. (Sam) Simon started his career in Washington, DC, as a lawyer for Ralph Nader’s first advocacy group. He then spent 25 years as head of a public affairs firm. In that work, he was often in the news, appearing on Face The Nation, Phil Donahue Show, Oprah Winfrey Show, Good Morning America, and many more. Sam calls his playwriting and theatre work his 4th Age. His first play, The Actual Dance, Love’s Ultimate Journey Through Breast Cancer, was later turned into an award-winning memoir.
In 2021, Sam was diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s. Despite the enormous challenges of this diagnosis, Sam has become “Dementia Man,” a powerful advocate through theater, using his own experience as inspiration to reshape the narrative surrounding cognitive decline. With his newest play Dementia Man, An Existential Journey, Sam defies stereotypes and inspires audiences. Sam lives in Mclean, Virginia, with his wife Susan. They have two children and four grandchildren.
