Your Alzheimer Society E-Newsletter for April 2024 is here!

April 2024 E-Newsletter

#OurConnectionsMatter

Tie up those shoelaces because it is that time of year again!

We are thrilled to announce local registration for the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s is open!

The Walk is Canada’s largest event to raise funds for Alzheimer’s disease and is once again happening in communities across Ontario the weekend of May 25th!

Every person who registers for the Walk builds a connection within the community and helps make this world a safer, more inclusive place for people living with dementia. Together, we can help care partners, families and people living with dementia get the support they need.

View the nomination form

Today is Advance Care Planning Day Who would you trust to make your healthcare decisions?

Planning for your future healthcare needs is important. So, we’re asking: Do you know what would happen if you couldn’t decide for yourself? Who would you trust to make those healthcare decisions for you? You have the power to choose who that person is. They can be a family member, a friend, or anyone in your life that you trust to make the kinds of healthcare decisions you would want. Think about who you would trust with making those important decisions for you. Think about what matters most in your life and how that might help guide someone in making the kinds of healthcare decisions you would want.

The best time to think about this is now when you can make decisions for yourself. We have useful guides to help you along the way.

April 16th is Advance Care Planning Day. So, ask yourself: If not you, who? Do you know what would happen if you couldn’t decide for yourself? Who would you trust to make those healthcare decisions for you?

https://www.advancecareplanning.ca/acpday/

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us on March 27th for our Shaken Not Stirred Gala event at The Grand in Belleville. We are so grateful for our sponsors, donors, supporters, volunteers and attendees.

SUPPORT/EDUCATION PROGRAM HIGLIGHTS:

MEMORY CAFÉ:

Memory Cafe is a social event for those living with dementia and care partners to come together in a fun and engaging environment, and connect with the Alzheimer Society and each other. Memory café events feature activities, discussion, brain games and more.Memory Café events are currently hosted in Belleville, Quinte West, Brighton, Madoc, Tyendinaga, Picton, Madoc and Bancroft. To register or find out more please call 613-962-0892.

SUPPORT GROUPS:

Community support groups provide the opportunity for care partners to come together and share and provide peer support. Each event is led by an Alzheimer Society Education and Support Coordinator. Support groups are currently available in communities such as Belleville, Quinte West, Wellington, Madoc, Stirling, Bancroft, Tweed, Picton, Frankford and more. We also have specialized groups, virtual support group options and more! Please contact our office to find out more today. NEW GROUP OFFERING: "Living Apart, Virtual Care Partner Support Group". For more information contact Vero Ladd, vero.ladd@alzheimerhpe.ca or contact us at 613-962-0892/613-332-4614.

FIRST LINK LEARNING SERIES:

The First Link Learning Series offers a comprehensive overview of dementia, coping strategies, resources and support systems. Throughout the series participants are offered the opportunity to share and connect with others embarking on the dementia journey. The various courses include First Steps, Care Essentials, Options for Care, and Care in the Later Stages.

First Steps

This course of the First Link Learning Series provides an introduction to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Topics covered include: types of dementia, changes in the brain, coping strategies, planning for the future, managing risks and community resources.

May 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th

In Person: with Sogna Di Genova 9:30 am - 11:30 am
On Zoom: with Vero Ladd 10 am - 12 pm

Care Essentials

This course for family caregivers and care partners offers problem solving strategies related to communication, responsive behaviours, caregiver burnout and expected changes in mid-stage progression of the illness.

June 4, 11, 18, 25 with Sogna Di Genova, 9:30 am - 11:30 am - in person

Options for Care

This course for family caregivers and care partners assists the participants to evaluate their current caregiving needs and explore other available care options, including in-home care, adult day programs and long-term care.

Jul 8, 15, 22 with Lisa Young, 9:30 am - 11:30 am - in person

Care in the Later Stages

This course helps family caregivers and care partners understand what to expect in the later stages of dementia. This module will also explore how participants can provide comfort to the person as well as review the experiences of grief and loss.

Aug 5, 12, 13, 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm, more information coming soon