Alzheimer Society Info Guide Winter 2023
The Alzheimer Society is seen as a resource in the area for those living with dementia and caregivers. Our success is significantly due to the desire to work collaboratively with other organizations. We aspire to be a leader in the development of best practices in dementia care. Our programs and services promote wellness and social inclusion.
The Alzheimer Society is seen as a resource in the area for those living with dementia and caregivers. Our success is significantly due to the desire to work collaboratively with other organizations. We aspire to be a leader in the development of best practices in dementia care. Our programs and services promote wellness and social inclusion.
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<strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s Awareness<br />
INFORMATION GUIDE <strong>2023</strong><br />
Photo: Clients & Family<br />
Enjoying our Day Program<br />
What you need to know, and how we can help you<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca<br />
When Sarnia’s Fred Punch was told<br />
he has Lewy body dementia, a friend<br />
suggested the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong><br />
Sarnia-Lambton could help.<br />
“When you’re told you have this<br />
disease, it scares you,” says Fred who<br />
was an award-winning car salesman<br />
for 30 years before retirement.<br />
“There are some people who find<br />
out, go home and give up. I’m not<br />
going to do that,” he said. “I want to<br />
live as well as I can for as long as I<br />
can.”<br />
Next to <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s disease, Lewy<br />
body is the most common type of<br />
dementia. Fred started noticing the<br />
earliest signs about two years prior to<br />
his diagnosis.<br />
“Weird stuff began happening that<br />
I’d never noticed before,” he said.<br />
His blood pressure began suddenly<br />
dipping. He began misplacing his keys<br />
and cell phone five or six times a day.<br />
But the most startling symptom was<br />
hallucinations that he experienced<br />
for three or four seconds at a time,<br />
sometimes 20 times a day.<br />
“I’d see a dog or a person walking<br />
down the street and they weren’t<br />
really there,” he explained. “I’d see<br />
people in my kitchen or try to kill a<br />
spider that wasn’t there. One night I<br />
saw a number of people at the foot of<br />
my bed having a birthday party.<br />
“It was really unnerving.”<br />
It took time but eventually a<br />
neurologist in London did thorough<br />
cognitive testing and confirmed Lewy<br />
body, a condition when protein bodies<br />
get in the way of brain function.<br />
Learning to Live with Dementia<br />
By Cathy Dobson<br />
Fred Punch says staff at the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> Sarnia-Lambton offer invaluable support<br />
after a dementia diagnosis. Here he talks with Education Co-ordinator Christine Wright.<br />
It’s not curable but symptoms can<br />
be alleviated with medication and<br />
what Fred calls the big three: Exercise,<br />
socialization and sufficient rest.<br />
He made a call to the local <strong>Alzheimer</strong><br />
<strong>Society</strong> and found people there who<br />
understood his fears, could answer his<br />
questions and offer the right kind of<br />
support.<br />
“They put my mind at ease right<br />
away,” he said. “At times, this can all<br />
be a little hard to take and I am always<br />
looking for ways to deal with it, how to<br />
best live with it.<br />
“The staff has been here for me. I<br />
can’t imagine the number of people<br />
out there who are scared and don’t<br />
realize there is help for them.”<br />
Fred said he feels compelled to<br />
share his experience with dementia<br />
because it is so common, yet many<br />
don’t recognize the symptoms or<br />
know what to do.<br />
“We need to make people aware,”<br />
he said. “I want people to know about<br />
this because many aren’t familiar with<br />
Lewy body.”<br />
The <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> supports<br />
people with all types of dementia,<br />
says education co-ordinator Christine<br />
Wright.<br />
“Our clients have everything<br />
from mild cognitive impairment to<br />
various forms of dementia including<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s, Lewy body dementia,<br />
vascular dementia, head injuries,<br />
frontotemporal dementia and alcoholrelated<br />
dementia.”<br />
There are hundreds of types, Wright<br />
said.<br />
“We are concerned that dementia<br />
diagnoses really isolate people. A<br />
lot wonder where their friends have<br />
gone,” she said. “My biggest advice for<br />
someone with a new diagnosis is to<br />
call us right away. Don’t wait for a crisis<br />
or when you feel too overwhelmed.<br />
Instead let us support you throughout<br />
your journey.”<br />
Fred found counselling and<br />
information at the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong>.<br />
Importantly, he also found others<br />
dealing with similar problems. He<br />
meets regularly with an early stage<br />
support group and participates in<br />
social and recreational programs for<br />
clients and their caregivers.<br />
Some of his symptoms have eased<br />
while others have worsened over time.<br />
At age 70, Fred copes with varying<br />
degrees of heavy fatigue, confusion,<br />
short-term memory loss, problems<br />
with his balance and still some<br />
hallucinations.<br />
“But the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> is here<br />
to help,” he said. “They play a really<br />
important role and I want others to<br />
know about it.”<br />
If you or a loved one is looking for<br />
information and support related to<br />
dementia, contact the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong><br />
Sarnia-Lambton at 519-332-4444 or<br />
visit alzheimer.ca/sarnialambton.<br />
The <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> would like to<br />
thank Cathy Dobson for taking the time<br />
to write this article for us. We really<br />
appreciate your help Cathy, and it was<br />
a really nice conversation.<br />
From the creators of...<br />
Welcome to ...<br />
THE CLUB<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca
Our Philosophy<br />
The <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> is seen as a resource in the area for those living<br />
with dementia and caregivers. Our success is significantly due to the<br />
desire to work collaboratively with other organizations. We aspire to be<br />
a leader in the development of best practices in dementia care. Our<br />
programs and services promote wellness and social inclusion.<br />
Our Mission<br />
To alleviate the personal and social<br />
consequences of <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s disease and<br />
related dementias and to promote research<br />
with respect to such disease and dementias.<br />
Our Role<br />
The role of the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> of<br />
Sarnia-Lambton is to offer support, information<br />
and education to people with dementia, their<br />
families and their caregivers, to increase public<br />
awareness of dementia, to promote research<br />
and to advocate for services that respect the<br />
dignity of the individual.<br />
Our Vision<br />
We envision a world without <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s<br />
disease and other dementias.<br />
Our Values<br />
C A R E E<br />
Collaboration Accountability Respect Empowerment Excellence<br />
What You Should Know About<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s Disease<br />
January is <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s Awareness<br />
Month. Every year, the <strong>Alzheimer</strong><br />
<strong>Society</strong> takes the opportunity to raise<br />
awareness about neurocognitive<br />
disorders and the importance of<br />
early diagnoses. Here’s an overview<br />
of what you should know.<br />
What are neurocognitive<br />
disorders?<br />
Although neurocognitive<br />
disorders are often associated with<br />
memory loss, they can also affect a<br />
person’s mood, behaviour, thinking,<br />
language skills and problem-solving<br />
abilities. However, it’s important to<br />
note that neurocognitive disorders<br />
are different from age-related<br />
memory loss (ARML), which isn’t<br />
caused by an underlying medical<br />
condition.<br />
Who do they affect?<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s disease most<br />
commonly affects people over the<br />
age of 65. However, some individuals<br />
may start to show signs of cognitive<br />
Welcome to ...<br />
THE<br />
CLUB<br />
impairment in their 50s or 40s.<br />
Additionally, certain medical factors<br />
such as experiencing head trauma<br />
or having cerebrovascular disease<br />
can increase the risk of developing<br />
a neurocognitive disorder. Early<br />
diagnosis is important because<br />
neurocognitive disorders are<br />
progressive and worsen over time.<br />
What can you do?<br />
Although neurocognitive disorders<br />
often affect a person’s ability to<br />
communicate and express themself,<br />
it’s important to continue to converse<br />
with them to help them feel safe<br />
and at ease. If you have <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s<br />
disease or think you may have a<br />
neurocognitive disorder, talk to your<br />
doctor and contact the <strong>Alzheimer</strong><br />
<strong>Society</strong> of Canada.<br />
To learn more about<br />
neurocognitive disorders,<br />
visit alzheimer.ca.<br />
Sarnia-Lambton’s<br />
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THANK YOU for all the work you<br />
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519-491-1676<br />
Volunteer Opportunities<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> Sarnia-Lambton provides help for<br />
people living with dementia and their care partners.<br />
We need people of all ages, skills, and interests to help<br />
plan, coordinate, advocate, organize, lead and inspire.<br />
We will do our best to match your skill set and interests<br />
with our need for support.<br />
LAMBTON AUDIOLOGY ASSOCIATES<br />
SARNIA<br />
519-542-0569<br />
102-1433 London Rd.<br />
PETROLIA<br />
226-738-0401<br />
4-4119 Petrolia Line<br />
www.lambtonaudiology.com<br />
How you can help:<br />
• Individual and Group Supports<br />
• Social Activation Programs: Minds in Motion,<br />
Inspirational Moments, Forget Me Not Social Club<br />
• Client Services Support<br />
• Special Events and Fundraising Support<br />
• Young Leader Collective<br />
• Bingos<br />
• Board of Directors<br />
To get involved:<br />
Call: 519-332-4444<br />
Email: arand@alzheimersarnia.ca<br />
Web: alzheimer.ca/sarnialambton<br />
Page 2<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca
A Message from our CEO<br />
The <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong><br />
of Sarnia Lambton offers<br />
support, information,<br />
education, and system<br />
navigation to people<br />
living with dementia,<br />
their families, and<br />
their care partners. We<br />
strive to increase public<br />
awareness of dementia<br />
and advocate for services<br />
that respect the dignity of<br />
the individual.<br />
Our caring team of staff<br />
and volunteers work diligently<br />
to fulfill the <strong>Society</strong>’s mission, to<br />
alleviate the personal and social<br />
consequences of <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s<br />
disease and other dementias and to<br />
promote research.<br />
Support is available to anyone<br />
affected by memory loss or<br />
dementia, and our staff work with<br />
healthcare professionals, and other<br />
community agencies so that they<br />
too can provide person-centred and<br />
meaningful support to people living<br />
with dementia.<br />
The <strong>Society</strong> prides itself on<br />
forward- thinking, collaborative,<br />
inclusive, diverse, and equitable<br />
practices and is recognized as a<br />
leading resource in the community.<br />
We were honoured this year to<br />
receive an Outstanding Business<br />
Achievement Award in the category<br />
of Non-Profit of the Year from<br />
the Sarnia Lambton Chamber of<br />
Commerce.<br />
Seniors<br />
Save<br />
Young @<br />
Heart<br />
Earn Free<br />
Rewards<br />
on almost<br />
everything you<br />
buy at Pharmasave.<br />
We know that social<br />
isolation is one of the most<br />
difficult outcomes for<br />
many people living with<br />
dementia. The benefits<br />
of active living programs<br />
can help reduce<br />
isolation and relieve<br />
care partner stress.<br />
Evidence demonstrates<br />
that programs such<br />
as day programs,<br />
respite, social recreation,<br />
education, support groups<br />
and counseling assist people<br />
to live well in our community. It also<br />
eases the burden on our healthcare<br />
system. In the testimonials included<br />
in this publication, you can see the<br />
wonderful feedback received from<br />
clients participating in our services.<br />
We hope this publication will be<br />
helpful for you to learn more about<br />
our services and programs and<br />
how they can help you, your family<br />
member, your neighbour or anyone<br />
else in Lambton County living with<br />
dementia. Clients have shared that<br />
they wish they had connected with<br />
the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> earlier to<br />
help with navigation throughout<br />
their journey. Early intervention has<br />
proven to be helpful to everyone<br />
involved.<br />
(Melanie Bouck)<br />
SLEEP HEALTH SERVICES<br />
& CPAP SUPPLIES<br />
Sleep apnea and <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s are directly linked. Many studies<br />
show that sleep apnea can contribute to paents developing<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s disease and many people with <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s do have<br />
sleep apnea. Restwell would like to recognize <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s<br />
disease by helping our community in any way we can. If you<br />
think you have problems sleeping, give us a call today!<br />
• Free CPAP Machine Consultaon & Assessment<br />
• CPAP Supplies & Sleep Accessories<br />
• Home Sleep Apnea Tesng<br />
- In your home, no wait list, professionally<br />
analyzed & sent to your doctor in 1-2 weeks<br />
• Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring<br />
Joel Clarke<br />
RPSGT, RCT<br />
Execuve<br />
Director<br />
481 London Rd<br />
Sarnia, ON<br />
226-776-8891<br />
RestwellSarnia.ca<br />
Please contact us for more informaon - We are always happy to help!<br />
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SLIPPERS, SHOES, BOOTS, SANDALS<br />
www.soledecisions.ca<br />
ASK ABOUT IN-HOME SERVICE<br />
303 Davis St, Sarnia • 888-971-6345<br />
395 FLETCHER ST. • PETROLIA<br />
226-738-0665 • WWW.BLACKGOLD.BEER<br />
GIFTWARE & UNIQUE HOME DÉCOR<br />
SHOWCASING MANY LOCAL ARTISANS<br />
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850 Colborne Street @ Exmouth Street<br />
Northgate Plaza, Sarnia • 519-336-3838<br />
VULNERABLE PERSONS REGISTRY<br />
Do you know someone living with dementia?<br />
3 out of 5 people living<br />
with dementia will go<br />
missing at some point, a<br />
frightening experience,<br />
and a dangerous one.<br />
Julie Munday,<br />
Certified Pedorthist<br />
Each January,<br />
the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong><br />
supports and leads<br />
Canada’s <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s<br />
Awareness Month.<br />
During this month, we encourage everyone to learn more<br />
about dementia and its impact on Canadians.<br />
You can help build awareness on the supports available<br />
through your local <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> for persons living with<br />
dementia and their care partners.<br />
January is<br />
ALZHEIMER’S<br />
AWARENESS MONTH<br />
Our new year’s resolution<br />
is to end dementia stigma!<br />
Will you join us?<br />
We are happy to support<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s Awareness<br />
Free consultations - 519-336-6580<br />
www.feigedentureclinics.com<br />
That’s why the <strong>Alzheimer</strong><br />
<strong>Society</strong> of Sarnia-Lambton<br />
is partnering with The<br />
Sarnia Police Services and<br />
OPP to provide an<br />
opportunity for individuals living with dementia to be registered as someone<br />
at risk of going missing. Critical information collected provides searchers with<br />
quick access to key information to assist in locating the individual and<br />
returning them home safely.<br />
LONDON ROAD PHARMACY<br />
Locally Owned and Operated<br />
www.londonroadpharmacy.com<br />
* Every surface & product is disinfected daily for your safety!<br />
Tammy Maure<br />
1249 London Rd<br />
519-491-6778<br />
Registration<br />
is easy!<br />
Let’s all do our part to help individuals with<br />
dementia live safely in our community.<br />
Simply call <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> Sarnia-Lambton<br />
at 519 332 4444 to learn how.<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca<br />
Page 3
What We Do - Programs & Services in Sarnia-Lambton<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> of Sarnia Lambton has many programs including:<br />
• Counselling Services<br />
• Care Navigation<br />
• Support Groups<br />
• Social Recreation Programs<br />
• Education Sessions for people living with dementia,<br />
families, care partners and healthcare professionals<br />
• Professional training programs<br />
• <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> Mindful Music project<br />
• Peer-led support groups, and program support<br />
• Fundraising and Events<br />
• Online Programming (webinars, and social recreation)<br />
• Inter-professional collaboration and building community partnerships<br />
• Advocacy to support person with dementia to live well in our community<br />
INFORMATION AND SUPPORT PROGRAMS<br />
First Link Learning Series<br />
First Steps Workshop for persons with dementia to understand and address<br />
concerns about progression and changes they may experience.<br />
Next Steps for Families Workshop for care partners to better understand<br />
dementia symptoms and affects.<br />
Care Essentials Workshop Workshop on middle stages of dementia and<br />
understanding responsive behaviours, communication tips and best approach<br />
for care partners.<br />
Care in the Later Stages Workshop focusses on quality of life and end of life<br />
care for person living with dementia and support for care partners.<br />
Education for the Public that are open to anyone that would like to learn about<br />
dementia throughout Lambton County. Locations and topics change throughout<br />
the year. Can be booked for your organization. Some sessions we bring in<br />
outside guest speakers and experts on dementia care. Included in this education<br />
is Dementia Friendly Communities where you can learn how your organization<br />
can help people with dementia thrive in our community. Find Your Way program<br />
looks at safety for person living with dementia including our local Vulnerable<br />
Persons Registry with the police services.<br />
Topical Tuesdays are virtual session held weekly to help care partners to better<br />
understand dementia, improve care and care for themselves. The topic changes<br />
weekly and can be attended from the comfort of your home.<br />
TEACH® and CARERs® programs are developed by the Reitman Centre, Sinai<br />
Health Systems and our local facilitators lead this interactive group program<br />
helping care partners develop skills and strategies in care for the person living<br />
dementia.<br />
Support Groups for care partners & person living with dementia occur<br />
monthly giving and opportunity to share insights, concerns and support from<br />
peers and group facilitators. These groups are designed for the interests of the<br />
group including a support group specifically for care partners of someone with<br />
a frontotemporal dementia.<br />
Respite Services designed to provide in home activation, socialization and<br />
support for the person living with dementia as the care partner can take a break<br />
from daily care.<br />
ACTIVE LIVING PROGRAMS<br />
Minds in Motion®<br />
A social recreational program that<br />
incorporates physical and mental<br />
stimulation for people with early to<br />
middle stage dementia. This program<br />
is designed for the care partner to also<br />
take part. Options to attend virtually<br />
or in person. Thank you to Strangway<br />
Centre and Grace United Church for<br />
partnering for these sessions.<br />
Mindful Music<br />
Provides personalized music<br />
intervention to stimulate the long<br />
term memory of persons living with<br />
dementia while providing meaningful<br />
engagement, supporting self<br />
expression and identity.<br />
Forget Me Not Social Club<br />
A social networking opportunity for<br />
people living with dementia and their<br />
care partners to enjoy the company of<br />
others, and to get into the community<br />
to participate in planned activities<br />
Inspirational Moments<br />
An art based program that allows<br />
participants to access a tour of our<br />
newest exhibits and the Judith &<br />
Norman Alix Art Gallery. Explores<br />
art and conversation about specific<br />
artworks and then the groups has the<br />
opportunity to create their own art.<br />
Armchair Travelogue<br />
Sit back and enjoy traveling around<br />
the world from the comfort of your<br />
home. Virtual session take groups to<br />
different countries around the work<br />
to learn more, and discuss their new<br />
discoveries.<br />
For more information<br />
on any of our programs<br />
and services, call us at<br />
519-332-4444.<br />
Ways to reduce<br />
dementia stigma:<br />
Focus on what a person<br />
with dementia CAN do.<br />
Join in on our Active Living<br />
Programs including excercise,<br />
music, art, music, and travel<br />
(from the comfort of home) for<br />
persons living with dementia<br />
and their care partners.<br />
Contact Brooke at<br />
519-332-4444<br />
to learn more.<br />
Page 4<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca
“Members of my peer<br />
support group are at every<br />
step of the dementia<br />
journey. We recognize each<br />
other's challenges and can<br />
provide understanding and<br />
real life suggestions under<br />
the expert guidance of<br />
knowledgeable staff.”<br />
“I have found the support my<br />
brother and I have received from<br />
the society has been invaluable.<br />
My brother wouldn't have coped<br />
as well as he has with his dementia<br />
and I wouldn't have been able to<br />
provide the care and support he<br />
needed without the expertise of<br />
the society. As our needs changed,<br />
the society staff knew next steps<br />
and how to support us.”<br />
What Our<br />
Clients<br />
Have Shared:<br />
“This group was there for me right<br />
at the peak of our family’s struggles<br />
and I still get very emotional talking<br />
about the bond that was created<br />
with each of us in the group.”<br />
“My brother and I have received support and used the resources<br />
of the society for approximately the last five years. The<br />
knowledgeable, skilled staff have helped us understand the<br />
challenges of dementia and find the other agencies and<br />
resources we need. My brother's dementia's symptoms have<br />
worsened and the staff have helped us every step of the way to<br />
keep him safe and calm. The support I have received when<br />
requested, and as part of a support group, has ensured that I can<br />
be there for my brother as his primary care giver.”<br />
“I have been extremely impressed with everyone I have<br />
encountered with the <strong>Society</strong> including yourself. You are<br />
caring, empathetic, positive and hard working.”<br />
“….my first line of support,<br />
even calling me to ‘check in’<br />
when I was at my worse,<br />
somehow she always knew I<br />
needed her calm, supportive<br />
words to get me through.<br />
Then I started educational<br />
classes and I never realized<br />
how the educational part<br />
would be so helpful. She<br />
gave me tools to use that<br />
were a life saver."<br />
“I felt like I was being welcomed with<br />
warm hearts and experience that<br />
was going to help me understand<br />
the difficulties of living with<br />
dementia in my life. My parents<br />
were struggling and I didn’t know<br />
how to help them. I can’t say<br />
enough about the help I received.”<br />
“Since my initial connection with the ASSL about two and a half<br />
years ago, they have been a constant support as my husband's<br />
cognitive condition continued to decline. Telephone check-ins and<br />
discussions, providing helpful materials and publications, and<br />
recent in-person meetings have been important contributions to<br />
my husband's care and my wellness. The staff of the ASSL are<br />
consummate professionals whose work is consistently<br />
characterized by kindness and a personal touch. The ASSL is a<br />
valuable asset in our community, fostering cooperation among<br />
relevant agencies and institutions, reaching out with public<br />
education, and creating a hopeful outlook on dementia care.”<br />
PROUD TO SUPPORT<br />
ALZHEIMER’S AWARENESS<br />
BOB BAILEY<br />
MPP - Sarnia-Lambton<br />
CONSTITUENCY OFFICE<br />
805 Christina St. North, Suite 102<br />
Point Edward, ON N7V 1X6<br />
www.bobbaileympp.com<br />
Tel: (519) 337-0051<br />
Email: bob.baileyco@pc.ola.org<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca<br />
Page 5
From Independent Living<br />
to Comprehensive Care<br />
TOWN NAME, TOWN NAME and another awesome TOWN NAME<br />
Are you on track<br />
to meeting n<br />
your<br />
retirement ent goals?<br />
At IG Wealth Management, we go<br />
beyond RRSPs to look at your whole<br />
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ERIN POLLARD<br />
Consultant<br />
Investors Group Financial Services Inc.<br />
Tel: (519) 542-9597<br />
Erin.Pollard@igpwm.ca<br />
Trademarks, including IG Wealth Management, are owned by IGM Financial Inc. and licensed to its subsidiary corporations.<br />
© Investors Group Inc. 2019 RET2111MA_E (11/2019)<br />
Dementia is a call for us all<br />
to be more patient<br />
in a busy world.<br />
ilivewithdementia.ca | #ilivewithdementia<br />
A plan for living<br />
Ask about our<br />
monthly seminars<br />
on Tax Strategies,<br />
Retirement and<br />
Money Management<br />
throughout <strong>2023</strong>.<br />
We’re proud to<br />
partner with the<br />
Need A<br />
Guest<br />
Speaker?<br />
Questions are<br />
welcomed at<br />
educational sessions,<br />
and individual<br />
educational sessions<br />
can also be arranged.<br />
519-332-8461 • www.vision74.com<br />
We all know someone living with dementia,<br />
but as a community it’s important to learn more.<br />
If your club or organization would like a<br />
guest speaker for your virtual meeting,<br />
contact Christine at 519 332-4444<br />
or cwright@alzheimersarnia.ca<br />
In September 2021,<br />
ASSL launched our Young<br />
Leaders Collective (YLC),<br />
which is a community<br />
of passionate and driven<br />
individuals who want to<br />
change the lives of those<br />
affected by dementia<br />
and are invested in their<br />
own brain health. YLC’s<br />
core pillars are advocacy, networking,<br />
education, and community<br />
engagement.<br />
Throughout the first year, Members<br />
and Ambassadors networked with<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> Senior Leadership<br />
and the Board of Directors at various<br />
events. They had the opportunity to<br />
participate in many fund development<br />
events such as OktBorderfest and our<br />
Worn and Buff It Custom Kitchen<br />
Lottery. After one year, we have 7<br />
inspiring Young Leaders.<br />
One such Young Leader is Nick<br />
Ravenhorst. Nick is 27 years old and<br />
VISION74<br />
NURSING & REST HOME<br />
TOPICS CAN INCLUDE:<br />
• Understanding <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s disease,<br />
dementia and cognitive impairment<br />
• How to help those with dementia<br />
• Local supports & programs<br />
• Warning signs<br />
• Tips on Care<br />
• How to reduce your risk of dementia<br />
• or a topic of your choosing<br />
Young Leaders Collective<br />
’74 INC.<br />
is in sales & marketing at<br />
Bayview Chrysler Dodge.<br />
We asked Nick about his<br />
experience as a Young<br />
Leader and this is what<br />
he had to say: “I’ve had<br />
the opportunity to work<br />
side by side with other<br />
Young Leaders at concert<br />
events, participated in<br />
the promotion, and volunteered<br />
at big events. There has also been<br />
an education and networking<br />
component to this program. I’ve<br />
lived in Sarnia my entire life except<br />
for going to school in Toronto and I<br />
was looking for a way to give back to<br />
my community in a meaningful way.<br />
I would encourage anyone who is<br />
looking to give back to join the Young<br />
Leaders Collective.<br />
Our members are Kendyl Anderson,<br />
Jade Ray, Hannah D’Andrea, Meghie<br />
Smids, Sam Iaccino, Riley Smids and<br />
Nic Ravenhorst.<br />
Page 6<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca
Our 2022 Events<br />
TOWN NAME, TOWN NAME and another awesome TOWN NAME<br />
SAVE THE DATE<br />
Aug. 19, <strong>2023</strong><br />
SAVE THE DATE May 27, <strong>2023</strong><br />
Christmas<br />
Celebrations<br />
Chamber of Commerce OBAA Awards<br />
The benefits that the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> programs<br />
deliver to the community are truly wonderful.<br />
With deep gratitude -<br />
Chris & Sabrina Treftlin, Shine at Home<br />
Seniors’ Home Independence Network<br />
Housekeeping<br />
Companionship<br />
and Care<br />
Life is Better When<br />
You’re Home<br />
Seniors live at home -<br />
independently,<br />
comfortably & happily.<br />
It doesn’t matter how old you are, life is always better<br />
when you’re home. There’s a deep comfort that comes<br />
from being in familiar surroundings, sleeping in your own<br />
bed, and living under a roof that belongs to you.<br />
Established in 2010, Shine at Home serves seniors who wish<br />
to live in full independence. Since our earliest beginnings we<br />
have learned that with just a little help, people can remain<br />
in their homes for many years safe and free in the<br />
knowledge that a dedicated team is there for them.<br />
Call today to find out how we can help you:<br />
519-336-9898 shineathome.com<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca<br />
Page 7
Our Case for Support<br />
By Marie Marcy-Smids<br />
You can help alleviate the<br />
personal and social consequences<br />
of <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s disease and other<br />
dementias. Dementia is not a normal<br />
part of aging.<br />
Many people experience some<br />
memory loss as they get older. But only<br />
a portion of people develop dementia<br />
that progresses from mild to severe<br />
over several years. Dementia, like<br />
any other health condition, requires<br />
treatment and interventions to allow<br />
the person affected to have the best<br />
quality of life possible. Each year the<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> of Sarnia-Lambton<br />
helps close to 1000 people live better<br />
with dementia.<br />
With few medical options to slow<br />
the progression of dementia and no<br />
cure, a diagnosis of dementia can feel<br />
hopeless and isolating. The services<br />
provided by the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong><br />
help to reduce the stigma associated<br />
with dementia and ensure people<br />
living with this disease have a network<br />
of support and the help they need to<br />
live well. Supports and services are<br />
provided to both the person living<br />
with dementia and their care partner<br />
to help them navigate the dementia<br />
journey from the very beginning.<br />
We have come a long way in the past<br />
five years, introducing new programs<br />
and services and doubling the number<br />
of clients we serve. However, our<br />
population is aging and the number<br />
of people living with dementia is<br />
expected to triple within the next 30<br />
years. We are already experiencing<br />
strain on our capacity to meet the<br />
needs of our clients, and we know this<br />
will only get worse.<br />
Wait times result in unnecessary<br />
hospital admission and early<br />
admission to long-term care<br />
Currently, our clients face waits of<br />
up to three weeks for intake. This is<br />
simply not acceptable. Many of those<br />
who reach out to us do so in the later<br />
stages of their dementia journey when<br />
they have reached a point of crisis; a<br />
time when they need service in that<br />
moment. If supports are not accessible<br />
at the time they are needed, the only<br />
option is to access service through the<br />
emergency department, resulting in<br />
hospital admission or early admission<br />
to long-term care. This situation<br />
is avoidable. Family care partners<br />
deserve better. People living with<br />
dementia deserve better, and you can<br />
help.<br />
The <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> of Sarnia-<br />
Lambton is fortunate to receive<br />
funding from Ontario Health, but it<br />
is not enough. It is not enough now,<br />
as we face a $250,000 deficit just to<br />
maintain our current service levels;<br />
and it will not be enough in the<br />
coming years as the need for service<br />
continues to grow. Your financial gift<br />
and support can directly affect our wait<br />
times for service and help us expand<br />
programming. It will directly improve<br />
the quality of life for both people living<br />
with dementia and their care partners.<br />
Our 2022 Home Improvement<br />
Lottery WINNER!<br />
WE SUPPORT<br />
CANADA<br />
663<br />
United<br />
Association of Journeymen<br />
and Apprentices of the Plumbing<br />
and Pipe Fitting Industry<br />
of the United States and Canada<br />
Page 8<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca
Bring this i coupon n in to receive your<br />
10% off any regular priced item!<br />
Expires Dec 31, <strong>2023</strong><br />
Caregiver Resolutions<br />
Start by first telling yourself “I give myself<br />
permission to not keep the following<br />
resolutions or to keep them only partway.”<br />
& “I give myself permission to not be perfect.”<br />
• I will not try to maintain the impossible<br />
• I will be realistic about the illness<br />
• I will consider what can realistically change<br />
• I will ask for help from others & share the load<br />
• I will support myself like I am my own friend<br />
• I will accept help from others<br />
• I will ask for help from others<br />
• I will understand that I may not feel in control<br />
• I will look for humour in joy when I can<br />
• I will take care of myself too<br />
• I will contact the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong><br />
for support and information<br />
We were honoured to be<br />
recognized as the<br />
2022 Non-Profit<br />
Organization of the Year<br />
at the Sarnia-Lambton Chamber<br />
of Commerce Business<br />
Achievement Awards.<br />
565 Murphy Road<br />
SARNIA<br />
shoeboxsarnia.ca<br />
New Year<br />
519-332-4444<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca<br />
Ways You<br />
Can Donate<br />
There are so many ways to<br />
take action! Find out how to<br />
make a difference in your<br />
community and in the lives<br />
of people living with dementia by making a donation today.<br />
PLANNED GIFTS - By taking action and creating or updating your<br />
Will and Powers of Attorney, you will protect your family, your<br />
assets, save taxes and help in the fight against dementia. Your<br />
planned gift could be a bequest, gift of securities, gift of life<br />
insurance, major gift or other assets. Plan today for future<br />
distribution. Talk to your advisor.<br />
CORPORATE GIVING - We have many sponsorship opportunities<br />
throughout the year for various fundraising events, as well as<br />
in-office fundraising opportunities your team can participate in. Get<br />
your business involved today by fundraising (i.e. dress-down days,<br />
baked good sale, etc), Matching Gift program, Employee Charitable<br />
Giving program, Corporate Sponsorship or Hosting a Fundraising<br />
Event.<br />
MONTHLY GIVING - Monthly giving is an easy and convenient way<br />
to support the work we do, every month! It allows us to plan ahead,<br />
so that any gift, makes an ongoing difference in the lives of those<br />
living with dementia. Tax receipts are given annually.<br />
SPECIAL OCCASION GIVING (Wedding/Birthday/Tribute) - Use an<br />
event to help support people living with dementia and their families.<br />
Many of our supporters choose to give to ASSL in lieu of favours,<br />
gifts or flowers at special occasions. Our team can offer you a<br />
unique way to help celebrate your special day, making it a<br />
memorable, meaningful way to make a difference to the<br />
community. Ask Marie about Special Occassion giving today<br />
519-332-4444, mmarcy-smids@alzhiemersarnia.ca<br />
MEMORIAL GIFTS - Memorial donations to the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong><br />
Sarnia Lambton are a significant way to pay tribute to a relative,<br />
friend or colleague who has passed away.<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> Sarnia-Lambton<br />
Julie Dobson<br />
on<br />
Photo: SLCC<br />
Melanie Bouck<br />
Donations can also be made online at www.canadahelps.org, over the<br />
phone (519-332-4444) with a major credit card, by mail or by dropping<br />
by our office. Cheques to <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> of Sarnia-Lambton, 420<br />
East St North, Sarnia, ON N7T 6Y5. Receipts are issued for donations<br />
of $20.00 or more.<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca<br />
Page 9
Memory loss that affects<br />
Sign1<br />
day-to-day abilities<br />
It is normal to occasionally forget<br />
appointments, colleagues’ names or a friend’s<br />
phone number only to remember them a<br />
short while later. However, a person with<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s disease may forget things more<br />
often or may have difficulty recalling<br />
information that has recently been learned.<br />
Difficulty performing<br />
Sign2<br />
familiar tasks<br />
Busy people can be so distracted from time<br />
to time that they may forget to serve part of<br />
a meal, only to remember about it later.<br />
However, a person with <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s disease<br />
may have trouble completing tasks that have<br />
been familiar to them all their lives, such as<br />
preparing a meal or playing a game.<br />
Problems with<br />
Sign3<br />
language<br />
Anyone can have trouble finding the right<br />
word to express what they want to say.<br />
However, a person with <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s disease<br />
may forget simple words or may substitute<br />
words such that what they are saying is<br />
difficult to understand.<br />
Disorientation in time<br />
Sign4<br />
and space<br />
It is common to forget the day of the week or<br />
ones destination - for a moment. But people<br />
with <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s disease can become lost on<br />
their own street, not knowing how they got<br />
there or how to get home.<br />
10<br />
Impaired<br />
Sign5<br />
judgment<br />
From time to time, people may make<br />
questionable decisions such as putting off<br />
seeing a doctor when they are not feeling<br />
well. However, a person with <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s<br />
disease may experience changes in judgment<br />
or decision-making, such as not recognizing a<br />
medical problem that needs attention or<br />
wearing heavy clothing on a hot day.<br />
Problems with abstract<br />
Sign6<br />
thinking<br />
From time to time, people may have<br />
difficulty with tasks that require abstract<br />
thinking, such as balancing a chequebook.<br />
However, someone with <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s disease<br />
may have significant difficulties with such<br />
tasks because of a loss of understanding<br />
what numbers are and how they are used.<br />
Misplacing things<br />
Sign7<br />
Anyone can temporarily misplace a wallet or<br />
keys. However, a person with <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s<br />
disease may put things in inappropriate<br />
places: for example, an iron in the freezer or<br />
a wristwatch in the sugar bowl.<br />
Is it <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s disease?<br />
WARNING<br />
SIGNS<br />
Changes in<br />
Sign<br />
8<br />
mood and behaviour<br />
Anyone can feel sad or moody from time to<br />
time. However, someone with <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s<br />
disease can show varied mood swings - from<br />
calmness to tears to anger - for no apparent<br />
reason.<br />
Sign Changes in personality<br />
9<br />
Personalities can change in subtle ways over<br />
time. However, a person with<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s disease may experience more<br />
striking personality changes and can become<br />
confused, suspicious or withdrawn. Changes<br />
may also include lack of interest, fearfulness<br />
or acting out of character.<br />
Sign Loss of initiative<br />
10<br />
It is normal to tire of housework, business<br />
activities or social obligations, but most<br />
people regain their initiative. However, a<br />
person with <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s disease may become<br />
passive and disinterested, and require cues<br />
and prompting to become involved.<br />
In support of<br />
CANADA<br />
Sarnia Construction Association<br />
www.sarniaconstructionassociation.ca<br />
954 Upper Canada Drive, Sarnia, Ontario N7T 7J4<br />
Page 10<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca
The North Lambton Community<br />
Health Centre provides primary<br />
care, health promotion, community<br />
development and volunteerism. We<br />
work together with our system<br />
partners to maximize our<br />
resources.<br />
Our team focusses on assisting<br />
people to improve their wellbeing<br />
through better health and<br />
community inclusion. Our expertise<br />
in rural health and serving<br />
marginalized communities is one<br />
of our core strengths.<br />
SOME KEY HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:<br />
• Zoom programs<br />
• In person programs<br />
(Indoor & Outdoor<br />
in spring/summer/fall)<br />
• Virtual appointments<br />
• Outreach to various<br />
community partners<br />
• Harm Reduction and Hep C services<br />
FOR INFORMATION ON PROGRAMS:<br />
Forest at 519-786-4545 ext.307<br />
Sarnia at 519-344-3017 ext.259<br />
Check out our website<br />
at www.nlchc.com<br />
Follow us on social media:<br />
northlambtoncommunityhealthcentre<br />
westlambtoncommunityhealthcentre<br />
northlambtonchc<br />
SERVICES AVAILABLE<br />
AT FOREST & SARNIA<br />
MENTAL WELLNESS<br />
• Opening Door Program<br />
• Living through Depression<br />
& Anxiety<br />
• Start Overcoming Stress<br />
• Sleep Happy<br />
• Anger Management<br />
• <strong>Alzheimer</strong>s caregiver<br />
support (Forest)<br />
FITNESS PROGRAMS<br />
• Low Impact Exercise<br />
• Yoga • Shibashi<br />
• Seated Chair exercise<br />
• Trail Walking • Walking Fit<br />
MASTER YOUR HEALTH<br />
• Living with a Chronic Disease<br />
• Living with Chronic Pain<br />
SOCIAL<br />
Coffee Time in Arkona, Forest,<br />
Kettle Point & Sarnia<br />
HEALTHY EATING<br />
• Garden Fresh Box<br />
• Teen Cuisine<br />
KIDS PROGRAMS<br />
• Cooking Buddies<br />
• Afterschool Programs<br />
NEW PARENTS<br />
• Baby’s First Foods<br />
• Breastfeeding support<br />
• Feeding supports<br />
OTHER PROGRAMS AVAILABLE:<br />
• Pulmonary Rehab Program<br />
• Falls Prevention Program<br />
• Cardiac Rehab Program<br />
Common Feelings of Persons<br />
Living with Dementia<br />
• Don’t point out my mistakes or<br />
continuously correct me.<br />
• Don’t rush me, give me more time.<br />
• Don’t talk over me or about me to others.<br />
• Remember my feelings can be hurt easily.<br />
• Remember to still include me.<br />
• Remember I am not faking my illness or<br />
bothering you on purpose.<br />
• Please don’t say you forgot too…<br />
it isn’t the same.<br />
When you are<br />
frustrated with me<br />
because of the<br />
things I cannot do...<br />
Just imagine how<br />
frustrated I must be<br />
because I’m not<br />
able to.<br />
Dementia “Don’t miss me in the middle.”<br />
N UMB E R<br />
I N F O R M<br />
F A M I L Y<br />
R E M I N D<br />
Find the answer below<br />
DEMENTIA<br />
FRIENDLY<br />
COMMUNITIES<br />
O N T A R I O<br />
The Dementia-Friendly Canada project is a partnership between<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong> Societies across the country. Providing free tools and<br />
resources towards building knowledge and confidence to support and<br />
include people affected by dementia to live well in our community.<br />
Would you like to support this cause?<br />
If your group, business, club, or organization<br />
would like to learn more about helping with<br />
this goal, contact Christine at 519-332-4444.<br />
Answer to<br />
Puzzle above:<br />
FRIEND<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca<br />
Page 11
TOWN NAME, TOWN NAME and another awesome TOWN NAME<br />
Bottom Borders: Sunny days / Oh, sunny, sunny, sunny days