Alzheimer Society Info Guide Winter 2025
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>2025</strong><br />
What you need to know, and how we can help you<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca<br />
Local Couple finds Camaraderie and Support<br />
after His <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s Diagnosis Article & Photo by Cathy Dobson<br />
Stephen Dignard, retired locksmith<br />
and union leader, has spent his life<br />
giving to his family and community.<br />
So when neurologists at Toronto’s<br />
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre<br />
diagnosed him with primary<br />
progressive aphasia and early onset<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s disease, he worried he’d<br />
become a burden.<br />
That made it challenging for him to<br />
reach out for help from the <strong>Alzheimer</strong><br />
<strong>Society</strong> of Sarnia Lambton.<br />
“He’s always been a giver, so going<br />
somewhere where he’d be taking was<br />
difficult,” explained his wife Caroll.<br />
It was Caroll who made the initial<br />
call to the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong>. She<br />
wanted to find out what kind of<br />
supports there were.<br />
“I knew this journey isn’t something<br />
we could do on our own,” she said.<br />
Prior to his diagnosis in 2022,<br />
Stephen suffered a major cardiac<br />
event at age 59. He appeared to<br />
recover completely but a few weeks<br />
later found his speech deteriorating.<br />
As he increasingly struggled to<br />
find his words, simple things like<br />
touching his hand to his face became<br />
impossible. Ultimately, the diagnosis<br />
didn’t surprise Stephen who has<br />
lost several relatives to <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s<br />
disease.<br />
But what is surprising him is how<br />
much the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> is adding<br />
quality to his life and even providing<br />
new purpose.<br />
“It’s been excellent,” said Stephen,<br />
whose speech has improved since<br />
the diagnosis. He is able to fully<br />
converse during our interview but<br />
sometimes searches for words and<br />
uses a Lingraphica tablet to assist<br />
with communication. He knows he’ll<br />
increasingly depend<br />
on the device in the<br />
years ahead.<br />
“I don’t think I’d<br />
have the speech I have<br />
now if I just sat around<br />
at home. That’s what<br />
so many do. They sit<br />
in front of the TV and<br />
do nothing,” he said.<br />
“If it wasn’t for the<br />
day program here, I’d<br />
be at a complete loss.<br />
The people in my<br />
groups say the same<br />
thing.”<br />
He attends day programs every<br />
Tuesday and Thursday that involve<br />
activities to keep his body moving<br />
and his brain working.<br />
“When I’m not forced to remember,<br />
it all slips away,” said Stephen. “All<br />
the programs emphasize memory,<br />
followed by a social time.<br />
He also attends Minds in Motion,<br />
an <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> exercise and<br />
social program offered weekly at<br />
the Strangway Centre, Grace United<br />
Church and the Corunna Royal<br />
Canadian Legion.<br />
There’s a monthly Inspirational<br />
Moments hosted by the Judith &<br />
Norman Alix Art Gallery where he<br />
views the current shows and creates<br />
his own art.<br />
Twice a month,<br />
there are social outings<br />
such as bowling or the<br />
theatre.<br />
In every case, he<br />
finds a deep sense of<br />
camaraderie with the<br />
other participants.<br />
That connection is<br />
helping both Caroll<br />
and Stephen on this<br />
difficult journey.<br />
She gets involved<br />
with cycling activities,<br />
support and education<br />
programs, as well as social events.<br />
And, just as they did when Stephen<br />
was healthy, the Dignards still find<br />
ways to give back.<br />
Last summer, they held a fundraiser<br />
in their backyard and auctioned<br />
off several of Stephen’s paintings.<br />
That single event raised $2,700 for<br />
the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong>. Even their<br />
15-year-old grandson, Jayden Walter,<br />
helped out last summer, assisting<br />
with a cruise on the Duc d’Orleans II<br />
and a couple of fundraisers.<br />
Since joining the programs,<br />
Stephen has committed a lot of his<br />
time to painting, a pastime that he<br />
only dappled in previously.<br />
“As one part of my brain is closing,<br />
another is opening up,” he said.<br />
Some of his artwork hangs in the<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong>’s lunch room with<br />
paintings from other participants that<br />
he framed.<br />
“Stephen has taken on the role to<br />
help out whenever possible,” said<br />
Caroll. “It’s given him new purpose.”<br />
The day program regularly<br />
incorporates a group discussion<br />
where everyone talks about what’s<br />
happening to them personally.<br />
“We talk about where our minds<br />
are at and what issues we have,”<br />
said Stephen. “It’s great because,<br />
otherwise, it is easy to bury it all.”<br />
“It’s often an emotional time,”<br />
added Caroll. “This has become our<br />
away-from-home family.”<br />
“It really does feel like a family,”<br />
agreed Stephen. “The staff also<br />
makes it very warm and welcoming.<br />
The friendships here are really<br />
important.”<br />
If you are looking for<br />
information and support related to<br />
dementia, contact the <strong>Alzheimer</strong><br />
<strong>Society</strong> Sarnia-Lambton at 519-<br />
332-4444 or visit alzheimer.ca/<br />
sarnialambton.<br />
From the creators of...<br />
Welcome to ...<br />
THE CLUB<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca
2024<br />
PETROLIA WALK<br />
Photos by Von Shoemaker<br />
There are 733,040 people in Canada living with dementia.<br />
A Message from our CEO<br />
As we move into <strong>2025</strong>, the<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> of Sarnia-<br />
Lambton remains deeply<br />
committed to supporting<br />
individuals living with dementia<br />
and their care partners by<br />
offering a range of person-centred<br />
programs and services designed<br />
to enhance their quality of life.<br />
Our dedicated staff team and<br />
our valuable volunteers work<br />
diligently to ensure that<br />
each person has access to<br />
the services they need to<br />
continue to live a good<br />
life in their homes<br />
and community. Our<br />
goal is to foster a<br />
community where<br />
individuals living with<br />
dementia can thrive,<br />
and where their care<br />
partners feel empowered<br />
and supported.<br />
Living with dementia presents<br />
unique challenges, not only for<br />
those diagnosed but also for their<br />
loved ones and care partners.<br />
We understand the importance<br />
of providing comprehensive<br />
support, including counselling,<br />
support groups, education, social<br />
and recreational opportunities<br />
that help people navigate these<br />
challenges and reduce feelings of<br />
isolation.<br />
At the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> of<br />
Sarnia-Lambton, we take pride in<br />
offering community-based support<br />
and education that encourages<br />
social connection and physical<br />
activity - both proven to reduce<br />
stress and improve overall wellbeing.<br />
The <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> of<br />
Sarnia-Lambton will continue to<br />
advocate for services that uphold<br />
the dignity of all individuals and<br />
expand our outreach to<br />
provide education and<br />
support for the entire<br />
community. I hope<br />
this publication will<br />
provide you with<br />
information about<br />
our programs and<br />
services that are<br />
here to support<br />
you and your family<br />
wherever you might<br />
be on your dementia<br />
journey.<br />
Please don’t hesitate<br />
to contact us for information<br />
or support, whether you’re just<br />
starting this journey or further<br />
along in its progression. Early<br />
intervention and ongoing support<br />
are key to living well, and we are<br />
here to help every step of the way.<br />
Thank you for being part of this<br />
vital community, and for your<br />
continued support as we work<br />
together to build a brighter future<br />
for everyone living with dementia.<br />
(Denyse Newton, Interim CEO)<br />
What Our Clients Have Shared:<br />
“I just want to thank you for<br />
the hours and hours you<br />
have spent giving advice to<br />
caregivers looking after loved<br />
ones who are either at home<br />
or in LTC homes.”<br />
“The information you have provided was very<br />
helpful today. I use it daily to better care for my<br />
family member. This session’s topic was particularly<br />
useful, and I learned so much. Thank you.”<br />
“The assistance provided<br />
by the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong><br />
is outstanding.”<br />
“By having access to the programs and knowing<br />
as this disease continues we will have the support so I<br />
can continue to keep my loved one in his home.”<br />
“I am the primary caregiver for my loved one who is in<br />
the end stages of <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s and can no longer do any<br />
self care, or communicate. Without the respite program,<br />
I would have burned out long ago.”<br />
“The way you treat us just<br />
radiates joy and happiness.<br />
You are the program. You<br />
make it feel like a family.”<br />
“… thank you so much… we so<br />
appreciate your insights, anecdotes,<br />
and super-positive attitude, which<br />
really bolsters us through this<br />
difficult journey with our Mom. You<br />
give us a terrific bundle of emotional<br />
support combined with real-world<br />
examples that are so relatable.”<br />
“It was a visit to the emergency department that<br />
gave us a referral to the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong>. The<br />
doctor that assessed my loved one made the<br />
referral after reading her charts. I have been so<br />
thankful for this referral. The <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong><br />
has been amazing, and has guided me through a<br />
very desperate time. Thank you!”<br />
Page 2<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca
Every day more than 350 people in Canada develop dementia.<br />
COMMUNITY & HOME SUPPORT SERVICES<br />
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES • SOCIAL PROGRAMS<br />
Welcome to ...<br />
THE<br />
CLUB<br />
It has been a great<br />
honour for us<br />
to partner with the<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong><br />
in creating this<br />
important publication.<br />
THANK YOU<br />
for all the work<br />
you do to benefit<br />
our communities.<br />
Sarnia<br />
Lambton’s<br />
MAGAZINE<br />
FOR 55 +<br />
LIKE NO OTHER!<br />
welcometotheclub.ca • 519-491-1676<br />
Dementia is a call for us all<br />
to be more patient<br />
in a busy world.<br />
ilivewithdementia.ca | #ilivewithdementia<br />
519-845-1353 info@lambtonelderlyoutreach.org<br />
www.lambtonelderlyoutreach.org<br />
Our Case for Support<br />
Help alleviate the personal and social consequences of<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s disease and other dementias.<br />
Dementia is not a normal part of<br />
aging. 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.<br />
Each year the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> of<br />
Sarnia-Lambton helps close to 1000<br />
people live better 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 />
The number of people living with<br />
dementia is expected to triple within<br />
the next thirty years. We have come<br />
a long way in the past five years,<br />
introducing new programs and services<br />
and tripling the number of clients we<br />
serve. However, our population is aging<br />
and the number of people living with<br />
dementia is expected to triple within<br />
the next thirty years. We are already<br />
experiencing strain on our capacity to<br />
meet the needs of our clients, and we<br />
know this will only get worse in the<br />
coming years.<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 two 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.<br />
You can help. The <strong>Alzheimer</strong><br />
<strong>Society</strong> of Sarnia-Lambton is fortunate<br />
to receive funding from Ontario Health,<br />
but it is not enough. It is not enough<br />
now, as we face a $110,000 deficit<br />
just to maintain our current service<br />
levels; 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 />
Years of dedicated service from the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> team<br />
has meant all the difference in so many people’s lives.<br />
With admiration -<br />
Chris & Sabrina Treftlin, Shine at Home<br />
Seniors’ Home Independence Network<br />
Life is Better When<br />
You’re Home<br />
Seniors live at home -<br />
independently,<br />
comfortably & happily.<br />
In-Home Care<br />
Housekeeping<br />
Companionship<br />
Established in 2010, Shine at<br />
Home serves seniors who<br />
wish to live in full<br />
independence. Since our<br />
earliest beginnings we have<br />
learned that with just a little<br />
help, people can remain in<br />
their homes for many years<br />
safe and free in the<br />
knowledge that a dedicated<br />
team is there for them.<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 />
Call today to find out how we can help you:<br />
519-336-9898 shineathome.com<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca<br />
Page 3
By 2030 nearly 1 million people in Canada will be living with dementia.<br />
VULNERABLE PERSONS REGISTRY<br />
Do you know someone living with dementia?<br />
3 out of 5 people living with<br />
dementia will go missing at some<br />
point, a frightening experience,<br />
and a dangerous one.<br />
That’s why the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong><br />
of Sarnia-Lambton is partnering<br />
with The Sarnia Police Services and<br />
OPP to provide an opportunity for<br />
individuals living with dementia to<br />
be registered as someone at risk of<br />
going missing. Critical information<br />
collected provides searchers with<br />
quick access to key information to<br />
assist in locating the individual and<br />
returning them home safely.<br />
WORD JUMBLE<br />
EDAEMTIN ______________________<br />
SMNIGSI ________________________<br />
ISKR ____________________________<br />
NFMINATOOIR __________________<br />
NIGOACLT_______________________<br />
DAIVUILIDN _____________________<br />
ERLZAIMESH ____________________<br />
SAWEERNSA ____________________<br />
EDSISEA ________________________<br />
OVEL ___________________________<br />
TPOPRSU _______________________<br />
ANSWERS: DEMENTIA, MISSING,<br />
RISK, INFORMATION, LOCATING,<br />
INDIVIDUAL, ALZHEIMERS, AWARENESS,<br />
DISEASE, LOVE, SUPPORT<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 />
Easy is always<br />
on hand.<br />
Open your freezer to many easy meals<br />
made especially for seniors, delivered for free*.<br />
We accept<br />
the Veterans<br />
allowance.<br />
Locally owned by<br />
Paul and Linda Knight<br />
Get your FREE Menu<br />
1-877-404-4246<br />
HeartToHomeMeals.ca<br />
*Some conditions may apply.<br />
Page 4<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca
By 2050 the number of people of indigenous ancestry living with dementia in Canada is expected to increase by 273%.<br />
2024<br />
SARNIA WALK<br />
Photos by Von Shoemaker<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 />
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 />
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 />
In support of<br />
CANADA<br />
Sarnia Construction Association<br />
www.sarniaconstructionassociation.ca<br />
954 Upper Canada Drive, Sarnia, Ontario N7T 7J4<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca<br />
Page 5
Maintaining your hearing can reduce your risk of dementia.<br />
Why I Volunteer...<br />
I volunteer with the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> of<br />
Sarnia-Lambton because I believe in the<br />
importance of helping others realize they’re not<br />
alone. When families face <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s or<br />
dementia, it can feel incredibly isolating, and I<br />
want to ensure they have access to the<br />
resources and support they need. Volunteering allows me to be part of a<br />
compassionate community that brings people together to help fund<br />
and sustain the incredible programs and services the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong><br />
offers. Knowing that my efforts, however small, can make a difference<br />
and remind people they don’t have to navigate this journey alone is<br />
what motivates me.<br />
Sincerely,<br />
The Dorothea Rivett Award<br />
In 1993, Dorothea Rivett volunteered<br />
as a Board Member with the <strong>Alzheimer</strong><br />
<strong>Society</strong> of Sarnia-Lambton. During her<br />
tenure, she served as President and<br />
Treasurer and has been credited with<br />
rebuilding the <strong>Society</strong>.<br />
Dorothea had a vision for the<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> and believed<br />
the agency should be in a location<br />
accessible to all. She worked hard to<br />
have the office moved to Sarnia where<br />
it was more visible than its prior<br />
location within a longterm care home<br />
in the County. She hired a staff team,<br />
secured charitable status and affiliation<br />
as a federated partner of the <strong>Alzheimer</strong><br />
<strong>Society</strong> of Ontario. Dorothea’s belief<br />
was that the ASSL should be highly<br />
visible and accessible to all. Dorothea<br />
passed away on October 19, 2006.<br />
The Dorothea Rivett award is<br />
presented annually to one individual<br />
and to one corporation or business.<br />
Nominations open in April and<br />
recipients are selected by Committee<br />
at the end of May. Winners are<br />
recognized at the <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong>’s<br />
Annual General Meeting in June.<br />
Candidates must have made some<br />
contribution to move the community<br />
forward in one of the following areas:<br />
research, program need, forward<br />
thinking for change, visibility of the<br />
disease, accessibility to information –<br />
contribution makes the individual a<br />
“champion” of awareness.<br />
Corporation or Business Winner ~ Bluewater Hearing & Balance<br />
Bluewater Hearing and<br />
Balance, founded by Dr.<br />
Nashlea Brogan in Sarnia<br />
over 20 years ago, has<br />
been selected to receive<br />
the Dorothea Rivett<br />
Award for their outstanding<br />
contributions to research and care<br />
for individuals with <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s and<br />
other dementias in the category of<br />
Corporate or Business. The clinic<br />
under Nashlea Brogan’s leadership,<br />
focuses on holistic audiological<br />
care for older adults, offering<br />
personalized longterm treatment<br />
plans to reduce risk of falls, cognitive<br />
decline, tinnitus, and enhance social<br />
connections. Nominated by the<br />
Fund Development team at the<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong> as a standout<br />
in furthering dementia care,<br />
Bluewater Hearing and<br />
Balance demonstrates strong<br />
commitment to supporting<br />
dementia programs.<br />
They actively support the<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong>, emphasizing<br />
early education and hearing<br />
treatment to prevent cognitive<br />
decline. Additionally, the clinic has<br />
consistently provided financial<br />
support through sponsorship of<br />
the IG Wealth Management Walk<br />
for <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s, underscoring their<br />
commitment to raise awareness and<br />
resources for dementia care and<br />
research. This highlights their belief<br />
that together we are better.<br />
From Independent Living<br />
to Comprehensive Care<br />
VISION74<br />
519-332-8461 • www.vision74.com<br />
’74 INC.<br />
NURSING & REST HOME<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 />
How you can help:<br />
• Support Groups<br />
• Active Living Programs<br />
• Day Program<br />
• Special Events & Fundraising<br />
• Young Leaders Collective<br />
• Bingo Host<br />
• Board of Directors<br />
• Bilingual Translator<br />
To get involved:<br />
Call: 519-332-4444<br />
Email: arand@alzheimersarnia.ca<br />
Web: alzheimer.ca/sarnialambton<br />
Individual Winner ~ Dr. Amanda Giffin<br />
We are thrilled to announce<br />
that Dr. Amanda Giffin<br />
has been selected as the<br />
individual recipient of this<br />
year’s prestigious Dorothea<br />
Rivett Award. Dr. Giffin was<br />
nominated by Maggie Boulton,<br />
ASSL’s Manager of Clinical Services<br />
for her unwavering and exceptional<br />
support to our clientele.<br />
Dr. Giffin has made an indelible<br />
mark on everyone who seeks her<br />
care. Clients consistently praise her<br />
for her kindness, thoroughness,<br />
and dedication to those living with<br />
<strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s and other dementias.<br />
She goes above and beyond to<br />
ensure that all questions are<br />
answered and appropriate<br />
supports are put into place.<br />
Dr. Giffins’s commitment<br />
to her patients’ wellbeing<br />
is evident in the way<br />
that she ensures they leave<br />
her office feeling supported and<br />
reassured they are never alone.<br />
Her compassionate approach and<br />
professional excellence embody<br />
the spirit of the Dorothea Rivett<br />
Award. We are deeply grateful for<br />
contributions and proud to celebrate<br />
her achievements. Congratulations,<br />
Dr. Giffin, on this well-deserved<br />
award!<br />
Page 6<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca
People with Type 2 diabetes in mid-life have an increased risk of dementia.<br />
Dementia is Not a Normal Part of Aging<br />
There are important differences between symptoms of dementia and normal aging:<br />
NORMAL AGING<br />
DEMENTIA<br />
Forgetting events from a year ago. Forgetting details from recent events.<br />
Becoming lost occasionally.<br />
Occasionally struggling to find words.<br />
Able to speak clearly and well.<br />
Predictable and stable moods.<br />
Able to follow and participate in<br />
conversations.<br />
Ability to perform everyday tasks<br />
like paying bills and shopping.<br />
Becoming lost frequently or in familiar places.<br />
Frequently pausing & using substitutions when trying to find words.<br />
Increase in slurred speech and other language problems.<br />
Unpredictable changes in mood and behaviour.<br />
Difficulty in following or participating in conversations;<br />
frequent repetition of questions and stories.<br />
Difficulty with remembering to do everyday tasks, like paying<br />
bills or shopping.<br />
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alzheimersarnia.ca<br />
Page 7
Women are at higher risk of developing <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s disease.<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 exercise,<br />
art, music, and travel (from the<br />
comfort of home) for persons<br />
living with dementia and their<br />
care partners.<br />
Contact Vanessa<br />
at 519-332-4444<br />
to learn more.<br />
WE’RE PROUD TO PARTNER WITH THE<br />
Page 8<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca
Most cases of <strong>Alzheimer</strong>’s disease are sporadic, meaning they don’t run in families.<br />
PERSONAL TRAINING<br />
in a Private & Safe Environment<br />
Strength Training<br />
Specialist for<br />
Older Adults<br />
519-541-1005 lwilliams11@cogec<br />
by Lorrie<br />
Do you live with<br />
dementia or know<br />
someone who does?<br />
You are not alone.<br />
Find out how we can help.<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca • 519-332-4444<br />
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 />
• Day Program<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 on middle stages of dementia and understanding<br />
responsive behaviours, communication tips and best approach 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 outside<br />
guest speakers and experts on dementia care. Included in this education is<br />
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<br />
better understand dementia, improve care and care for themselves. The topic<br />
changes 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 an 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.<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 />
Wellness Lounge<br />
The Wellness Lounge is a place<br />
where care partners can come and<br />
connect with each other. Visit, have<br />
a cup of coffee or tea, chat and play<br />
games. It’s open Mondays 10-12:30,<br />
with more days to follow in the<br />
coming months.<br />
For more information<br />
on any of our programs<br />
and services, call us at<br />
519-332-4444.<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca<br />
Page 9
10<br />
Possible<br />
1 in 5 Canadians have experienced caring for someone living with dementia.<br />
Loss of initiative<br />
Losing interest in spending<br />
time with friends and family<br />
and in taking part in activities.<br />
Needing prompts to become<br />
involved.<br />
Signs<br />
of Dementia<br />
Ten common signs of dementia are described below. If you are<br />
concerned about any of these changes in yourself or someone else,<br />
contact a health-care provider or your local <strong>Alzheimer</strong> <strong>Society</strong>.<br />
Misplacing things<br />
Putting things<br />
in strange places,<br />
like a remote in<br />
the refrigerator.<br />
Disorientation<br />
in time and place<br />
Not knowing what<br />
day of the week<br />
it is or getting lost<br />
in a familiar place.<br />
Changes in mood,<br />
behaviour and<br />
personality<br />
Experiencing severe mood<br />
changes or behaving out<br />
of character, such as being<br />
suspicious or withdrawing.<br />
Difficulty doing<br />
familiar tasks<br />
Forgetting how to<br />
do something you’ve<br />
been doing your<br />
whole life, such as<br />
preparing a meal or<br />
getting dressed.<br />
Problems with<br />
abstract thinking<br />
Having difficulty<br />
managing finances<br />
or not knowing what<br />
numbers are<br />
and how they<br />
are used.<br />
Impaired judgment<br />
Not recognizing<br />
a medical problem that<br />
needs attention or<br />
wearing light clothing<br />
on a cold day.<br />
Changes in language<br />
and communication<br />
Forgetting words,<br />
substituting words or using<br />
the wrong words that<br />
don’t fit the conversation.<br />
Memory changes<br />
that affect<br />
day-to-day<br />
abilities<br />
Forgetting who<br />
a family member is<br />
or not remembering<br />
new information.<br />
Changes in sight<br />
or motion<br />
Not seeing objects when<br />
walking or difficulty placing<br />
items on a table.<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 />
Page 10<br />
alzheimersarnia.ca
Up to ¾ of those with dementia worldwide have not been diagnosed.<br />
Proudly Powering<br />
Our Communities...<br />
For Over<br />
100 Years!<br />
The Young Leaders Collective,<br />
comprised of dynamic young<br />
professionals, continues to<br />
make substantial contributions<br />
to our fundraising efforts and<br />
events. Their primary aim is<br />
to enhance awareness and<br />
understanding of dementia care<br />
through regular engagements.<br />
This past year, we hosted six students—five from Lambton<br />
College and one completing a master’s degree at Western<br />
University—who completed their practical training within our<br />
Day Program, Clinical team, and Active Living Programs. Their<br />
involvement has been invaluable to our continued success.<br />
Become a member today at:<br />
alzheimer.ca/sarnialambton/en/take-action/young-leaders-collective<br />
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Tammy Maure<br />
1249 London Rd<br />
519-491-6778<br />
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 />
2024 Photos by Von Shoemaker<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 />
alzheimersarnia.ca<br />
Page 11
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