Alzheimer Society Info Guide Winter 2026

Alzheimer’s Awareness
INFORMATION GUIDE 2026
What you need to know, and how we can help you
alzheimersarnia.ca
Connecting for Care Leads to More Community
Article by Christine Wright, Alzheimer Society Staff & Photo by Von Shoemaker
Hansa Thakker is the primary
care partner for her husband Ashvin
who is diagnosed with dementia.
She has seen the changes the
symptoms have had on her husband
for many years.
Ashvin is known to be very social
and loves interacting with others.
Today Ashvin has become quieter
and has a harder time finding his
words, but he still loves being
with others. Ashvin takes part in
many activities in his community
which now also includes activities
connected to the Alzheimer Society.
Weekly Ashvin attends the Minds
in Motion® exercise program, the
Alzheimer Society Day Program,
The Forget Me Not Social Club and
more. Hansa shares that on outings
to see musicals Ashvin boldly sings
along. His love of music has not
changed with his diagnosis.
Looking back there were signs
that Ashvin had the early signs of
dementia. Years later colleagues
will share they noticed changes in
his abilities.
Her son and daughter in-law first
approached Hansa to ask if she had
noticed changes in “Pops.” They
were both acutely aware after her
daughter in law’s mother had been
diagnosed and they were seeing a
familiar pattern in both parents.
Hansa had seen signs too and a
discussion had already been started
with the doctor. This conversation
eventually led to connecting with
the local Alzheimer Society.
“I have had to learn to be patient
but some days I am not. I feel guilty
about that, and I cry. As a care
partner it can be very tiring. I often
feel he is not listening to me, but
I understand his focus and abilities
have changed.” Hansa spends a
great portion of the day helping
him with everything. If he is
listening to music and it stops, she
is the one to fix it. She spends time
constantly seeing what he wants to
do which is now harder for him to
communicate.
Hansa has also joined programs
that help her including dropping
into the Alzheimer Wellness Lounge
for social gatherings. “What has
helped is talking to others that are
in similar situations. I have learned
how to better help my husband. I
have learned I have to do things in
a different way. Talking with other
people has helped me and I find I
can help others too.”
The Thakkers are a tightknit
family. Ashvin is the favourite
among many nieces and nephews.
He shows great patience with
children and often treated them
to their pick of candy at the store.
Now his grandson says that he
wishes Ashvin had not changed.
He is still a favourite. His toddler
granddaughter has a special
connection and calms when she is
around him.
The family gathers every year
in May to join in the IG Wealth
Management Walk for Alzheimer’s.
Coming as far as Toronto for the
day, both sides of the family gather
in honour of Ashvin to support
him. This is a testament to the love
many have for Ashvin.
When asked what she hopes
other people know, Hansa shares;
“When it comes to dementia
different communities feel it is just
a normal part of aging. I surprise
them when I say we have joined
the Alzheimer Society. It is helping
us a lot, and I hope it will help
them too. I did not know they had
so many programs. The staff at the
Alzheimer Society check in every
so often and it is so nice. I suggest
that it helps to tell people what he
is going through so they can be
understanding.”
If you are looking for
information and support
related to dementia, contact
the Alzheimer Society Sarnia-
Lambton at 519-332-4444 or visit
Alzheimer.ca/sarnialambton.
From the creators of...
Welcome to ...
THE CLUB
alzheimersarnia.ca

Proudly Powering
Our Communities...
For Over
100 Years!
There are 771,939 people in Canada living with dementia.
A Message from our CEO
As we observe Alzheimer’s Awareness
Month, the Alzheimer Society of Sarnia-
Lambton reaffirms our unwavering
commitment to supporting
individuals living with dementia
and their care partners. Every
day, our dedicated staff and
volunteers work tirelessly
to ensure that each person
we serve has access to the
programs and services they
need to live well — and live
with dignity — in their home
and community.
Our mission remains to foster
a community where people living with
dementia can thrive and where their care
partners feel empowered and supported.
Through person-centred care, education,
and social connection, we help people
navigate the challenges of dementia
while reducing feelings of isolation
and promoting overall wellbeing.
We encourage individuals
living with dementia, as
well as their care partners,
to connect with us for
support at any stage of
their journey. Our team
is committed to providing
guidance, resources, and a
compassionate network of care
to ensure that no one faces dementia
alone.
(Melanie Bouck, CEO)
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Services en Français
Que vous vouliez découvrir nos programmes et
services ou que vous souhaitiez vous renseigner
sur un aspect précis des troubles neurocognitifs,
la Société Alzheimer a le matériel éducatif et les
ressources qu’il vous faut.
Dinner is Served.
https://alzheimer.ca/fr
RESIDENTIAL
CARE
SERVICES
Provided by
Personalized Catering (in home dinners or pickups)
Prepared Frozen Meals available at the Eatery
144 Mitton St South, Sarnia • 519-344-7070
chefp@personaltoucheatery.ca
Are you concerned you may have dementia,
mild cognitive impairment
or have recently been diagnosed?
Find out how the Alzheimer Society can support you.
First Link® Care Navigators link you to Alzheimer Society
services and other programs within your community.
Live at Home - We’ll Make it Easy
519.336.9898
www.shineathome.com
First Steps for Person Living
with Dementia Learning Series
THIS COURSE PROVIDES:
• Understanding of your diagnosis
• Coping with the changes you
experience
• Opportunity to participate in
sharing and connecting with
others with similar experiences
The First Link® Learning Series
is also available for care partners.
The Alzheimer Society offers many
other services to support those living
with dementia throughout your care
needs including social engagement.
519-332-4444
alzheimersarnia.ca
Page 2
alzheimersarnia.ca

Welcome to ...
THE
CLUB
READ THIS ONLINE at
welcometotheclub.ca
N UMB E R
I N F O R M
F A M I L Y
R E M I N D
Find the answer below
Every day more than 350 people in Canada develop dementia.
It’s been an honour
to partner with the
Alzheimer Society
in creating this
important publication.
THANK YOU for all the
work you do to benefit
our communities.
DEMENTIA
FRIENDLY
COMMUNITIES
O N T A R I O
The Dementia-Friendly Canada project is a partnership between
Alzheimer Societies across the country. Providing free tools and
resources towards building knowledge and confidence to support and
include people affected by dementia to live well in our community.
Would you like to support this cause?
If your group, business, club, or organization
would like to learn more about helping with
this goal, contact Christine at 519-332-4444.
Answer to
Puzzle above:
FRIEND
Our Case for Support
Help alleviate the personal and social consequences of
Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
Dementia is not a normal part of
aging.
Many people experience some
memory loss as they get older, but only
a portion of people develop dementia,
which progresses from mild to severe
over several years. Dementia, like
any other health condition, requires
treatment and interventions to allow the
person affected to have the best quality
of life possible.
Each year the Alzheimer Society of
Sarnia-Lambton helps close to 1,000
people live better with dementia.
With few medical options to slow
the progression of dementia and no
cure, a diagnosis can feel hopeless and
isolating. The services provided by the
Alzheimer Society help reduce stigma,
build community, and ensure that
people living with this disease and their
care partners have the support they need
from the very beginning of their journey.
The number of people living with
dementia is expected to triple within
the next thirty years.
We’ve come a long way in the past five
years, introducing new programs and
tripling the number of clients we serve.
However, our aging population and the
growing prevalence of dementia mean
the demand for our services continues to
increase rapidly.
Our programs are at capacity.
Currently, our Social Activation
Program—a vital lifeline of connection
and purpose—is attended by more than
half of our clients. We know many more
would participate if we had the capacity
to accommodate them. With only one
Coordinator, we are simply at our limit.
Expanding this program will help us
reach more individuals, reduce isolation,
and enhance quality of life for both
people living with dementia and their
caregivers.
There is also a critical need to
expand our Day Program.
Our Day Program provides essential
respite for caregivers while offering
engaging, therapeutic care to people
living with dementia. It operates five days
a week and is now at full capacity with a
wait list. The need for respite continues
to grow, particularly in underserved rural
communities and among Indigenous
populations. Expanding our reach to
these areas is vital to ensuring equitable
access to care and support for all families
affected by dementia.
You can help.
The Alzheimer Society of Sarnia-
Lambton receives funding from Ontario
Health, but it is not enough to meet the
growing need. Your financial gift can
directly expand our Social Activation and
Day Program services, allowing us to hire
additional staff, extend our reach, and
reduce wait times for families in need.
Your support will make a tangible
difference—helping people with
dementia live well, and giving their care
partners the time, relief, and peace of
mind they deserve.
alzheimersarnia.ca
Page 3

By 2030 nearly 1 million people in Canada will be living with dementia.
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DIX SIGNES PRÉCURSEURS
Si votre santé cérébrale ou celle d’un proche vous préoccupe, vous devez
savoir reconnaître les signes précurseurs d’un trouble neurocognitif afin
qu’un diagnostic puisse être établi le plus tôt possible.
No 1 : Troubles de mémoire affectant le
fonctionnement
No 2 : Difficultés avec les tâches courantes
No 3 : Problèmes de langage et de
communication
No 4 : Confusion temporelle et spatiale
No 5 : Altération du jugement
No 6 : Difficulté avec l’abstraction
No 7 : Objets égarés
No 8 : Changements d’humeur, de personnalité
et de comportement
No 9 : Perte d’intérêt
No 10 : Troubles de la vision ou de la motricité
519-332-4444
alzheimersarnia.ca
Téléchargez notre
brochure sur les dix signes
précurseurs (en version
mobile ou imprimable) ou
notre dépliant illustré
d’une page sur le sujet.
Ces ressources sont
disponibles dans les
bureaux de votre Société
Alzheimer régionale.
Our Philosophy
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.
Together, we can
end Alzheimer’s.
Our Mission
To alleviate the personal and social
consequences of Alzheimer’s disease and
related dementias and to promote research
with respect to such disease and dementias.
Our Role
The role of the Alzheimer Society of
Sarnia-Lambton is to offer support, information
and education to people with dementia, their
families and their caregivers, to increase public
awareness of dementia, to promote research
and to advocate for services that respect the
dignity of the individual.
Our Vision
We envision a world without Alzheimer’s
disease and other dementias.
Our Values
C A R E E
Collaboration Accountability Respect Empowerment Excellence
LAMBTON AUDIOLOGY ASSOCIATES
SARNIA
519-542-0569
102-1433 London Rd.
PETROLIA
226-738-0401
4-4119 Petrolia Line
www.lambtonaudiology.com
Page 4
alzheimersarnia.ca

By 2050 the number of people of indigenous ancestry living with dementia in Canada is expected to increase by 273%.
What Our Clients Have Shared:
“Having someone to talk to about what is happening
and getting advice on how to handle the situation has
alleviated a lot of stress for me as a carer.”
“I told my family I didn’t need a course on
dementia - and I was so wrong. I was
surprised within the first 10 minutes. I’m
now re-evaluating my entire approach.”
“I felt free and 20 years younger for the first
time in years. The company, the lovely food,
the games, the volunteers - it all came together
to create something really special.”
“I had no idea what I didn’t know.
Every time I connected with
someone at the Alzheimer
Society, I felt a weight come off
my shoulders. You’ve given me
exactly what I needed.”
“This program is an absolute lifesaver. I can’t thank the
Alzheimer Society enough for creating such a warm
and welcoming environment.”
“You have been a lifesaver. I tell
everyone who’s caring for someone
with dementia to reach out. All they
can do is help you - and they truly do.”
“I came thinking this would be like watching paint dry
- but it turned out to be one of the most useful and
interesting sessions I’ve taken in years.”
alzheimersarnia.ca
Page 5

Maintaining your hearing can reduce your risk of dementia.
What We Do - Programs & Services in Sarnia-Lambton
Alzheimer Society of Sarnia Lambton has many programs including:
• Counselling Services
• Care Navigation
• Support Groups
• Day Program
• Social Recreation Programs
• Education Sessions for people living with dementia,
families, care partners and healthcare professionals
• Professional training programs
• Alzheimer Society Mindful Music project
• Peer-led support groups, and program support
• Fundraising and Events
• Online Programming (webinars, and social recreation)
• Inter-professional collaboration and building community partnerships
• Advocacy to support person with dementia to live well in our community
INFORMATION AND SUPPORT PROGRAMS
First Link Learning Series
First Steps Workshop for persons with dementia to understand and address
concerns about progression and changes they may experience.
Next Steps for Families Workshop for care partners to better understand
dementia symptoms and affects.
Care Essentials Workshop on middle stages of dementia and understanding
responsive behaviours, communication tips and best approach for care partners.
Care in the Later Stages Workshop focusses on quality of life and end of life
care for person living with dementia and support for care partners.
Education for the Public that are open to anyone that would like to learn about
dementia throughout Lambton County. Locations and topics change throughout
the year. Can be booked for your organization. Some sessions we bring in outside
guest speakers and experts on dementia care. Included in this education is
Dementia Friendly Communities where you can learn how your organization
can help people with dementia thrive in our community. Find Your Way program
looks at safety for person living with dementia including our local Vulnerable
Persons Registry with the police services.
Topical Tuesdays are virtual session held weekly to help care partners to
better understand dementia, improve care and care for themselves. The topic
changes weekly and can be attended from the comfort of your home.
TEACH® and CARERs® programs are developed by the Reitman Centre, Sinai
Health Systems and our local facilitators lead this interactive group program
helping care partners develop skills and strategies in care for the person living
dementia.
Support Groups for care partners & person living with dementia occur
monthly, giving an opportunity to share insights, concerns and support from
peers and group facilitators. These groups are designed for the interests of the
group, including a support group specifically for care partners.
Respite Services designed to provide in home activation, socialization and
support for the person living with dementia as the care partner can take a break
from daily care.
ACTIVE LIVING PROGRAMS
Minds in Motion®
A social recreational program that
incorporates physical and mental
stimulation for people with early to
middle stage dementia. This program
is designed for the care partner to also
take part. Options to attend virtually
or in person. Thank you to Strangway
Centre and Grace United Church for
partnering for these sessions.
Mindful Music
Provides personalized music
intervention to stimulate the long
term memory of persons living with
dementia while providing meaningful
engagement, supporting self
expression and identity.
Forget Me Not Social Club
A social networking opportunity for
people living with dementia and their
care partners to enjoy the company of
others, and to get into the community
to participate in planned activities
Inspirational Memories
An art-based program that allows
participants to tour the newest exhibits
at the Judith & Norman Alix Art Gallery.
Participants explore art and have
thoughtful conversation about specific
artworks, and then they create their
own art guided by art gallery staff.
Wellness Lounge
The Wellness Lounge is a place
where care partners can come and
connect with each other. Visit, have
a cup of coffee or tea, chat and play
games. It’s open Mondays 10-12:30,
with more days to follow in the
coming months.
For more information
on any of our programs
and services, call us at
519-332-4444.
Society
Page 6
alzheimersarnia.ca

People with Type 2 diabetes in mid-life have an increased risk of dementia.
Dementia is Not a Normal Part of Aging
There are important differences between symptoms of dementia and normal aging:
NORMAL AGING
DEMENTIA
Forgetting events from a year ago. Forgetting details from recent events.
Becoming lost occasionally.
Becoming lost frequently or in familiar places.
PROUD
SUPPORTER
of the
Alzheimer
Society of
Sarnia-Lambton
BRYAN MEERE
Occasionally struggling to find words.
Able to speak clearly and well.
Predictable and stable moods.
Able to follow and participate in
conversations.
Ability to perform everyday tasks
like paying bills and shopping.
Frequently pausing & using substitutions when trying to find words.
Increase in slurred speech and other language problems.
Unpredictable changes in mood and behaviour.
Difficulty in following or participating in conversations;
frequent repetition of questions and stories.
Difficulty with remembering to do everyday tasks, like paying
bills or shopping.
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alzheimersarnia.ca
Page 7

Women are at higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Russell Street
We proudly support
120 Russell St. N, Sarnia
519-383-0688
Do you live with
dementia or know
someone who does?
You are not alone.
Find out how we can help.
alzheimersarnia.ca • 519-332-4444
The Young Leaders Collective is a dynamic and diverse group of young
professionals who generously volunteer their time and talents to support
our fundraising initiatives. Whether it’s early morning setup or late-night
tear-down, their energy and commitment never waver. This dedicated
team plays a key role in the success of our events and continues to bring
fresh ideas and enthusiasm to everything they do. This past fall they
ran their first-ever third-party event — an initiative aimed at raising
awareness of dementia and Alzheimer’s in the broader community.
Become a member today! Visit www.alzheimer.ca/sarnialambton/en/take-action/young-leaders-collective
PROUD TO SUPPORT
ALZHEIMER’S AWARENESS
BOB BAILEY
MPP - Sarnia-Lambton
CONSTITUENCY OFFICE
805 Christina St. North, Suite 102
Point Edward, ON N7V 1X6
www.bobbaileympp.com
Tel: (519) 337-0051
Email: bob.baileyco@pc.ola.org
Page 8
alzheimersarnia.ca

Most cases of Alzheimer’s disease are sporadic, meaning they don’t run in families.
COMMUNITY & HOME SUPPORT SERVICES
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES • SOCIAL PROGRAMS
519-845-1353 info@lambtonelderlyoutreach.org
www.lambtonelderlyoutreach.org
Need A
Guest
Speaker?
Questions are
welcomed at
educational sessions,
and individual
educational sessions
can also be arranged.
2025 WALKS
We all know someone living with dementia,
but as a community it’s important to learn more.
If your club or organization would like a
guest speaker for your virtual meeting,
contact Christine at 519 332-4444
or cwright@alzheimersarnia.ca
TOPICS CAN INCLUDE:
• Understanding Alzheimer’s disease,
dementia and cognitive impairment
• How to help those with dementia
• Local supports & programs
• Warning signs
• Tips on Care
• How to reduce your risk of dementia
• or a topic of your choosing
Ways to Make a Difference
There are many ways to leave a lasting legacy of compassion. Whether through
a one-time contribution or a planned gift, your generosity supports people in
our community living with dementia today—and for generations to come.
CASH
DONATIONS
Simple and direct, cash
donations are the
most common and
immediate way to
make a difference.
Gifts of cash are eligible
for charitable tax credits, which reduce
the amount of income tax owed. The
credit is 15% on the first $200 and 29%
on amounts above $200 (33% if
income exceeds $200,000).
Donating publicly traded
stocks or securities can
eliminate capital gains
tax while maximizing
impact. This makes it
one of the most
GIFTS OF
SECURITIES
AND
STOCKS
tax-efficient ways to give, as donors also
receive a charitable tax receipt for the
fair market value of the shares at the
time of transfer.
REAL
ESTATE
GIFTS
Donations of real estate
can provide significant
tax advantages. When
publicly traded
property is donated
directly to a registered
charity, donors avoid paying capital
gains tax on the appreciated value.
A gift in your will (bequest)
can create a meaningful
legacy while offering
tax relief to your BEQUESTS
estate. This type of gift
may significantly reduce
or even eliminate estate
taxes, ensuring more of your assets go
toward the causes you care about.
Donors can name a
charity as the
beneficiary of a life
LIFE
INSURANCE
POLICIES
insurance policy.
Premiums paid may
qualify for charitable tax
credits, and the payout to charity
upon the donor’s passing does not
create a taxable
benefit but does
provide a tax
credit to the
estate.
Community
Spotlight:
Building a Legacy Together
This spring, we were thrilled to
welcome 65 attendees to our first-ever
Planned Giving Information Event—a
day dedicated to exploring how
thoughtful planning today can make an
extraordinary impact tomorrow.
With guidance from local financial and
legal professionals, attendees learned
how charitable gifts can reduce taxable
income, support estate planning goals,
and help sustain programs that make a
tangible difference for families affected
by dementia.
Events like this empower our
community to give in ways that align
with their personal values and financial
goals—creating legacies that continue
to inspire hope, care, and progress.
Charitable remainder
CHARITABLE trusts allow donors to
TRUSTS
provide income for
themselves or their
beneficiaries during
their lifetime while
designating the remainder to charity.
This can result in income tax deductions
and reduced estate taxes.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE TODAY
Your generosity helps ensure that vital dementia support programs continue to
grow and reach those who need them most. Join us in making a lasting
impact—because every act of giving changes a life.
alzheimersarnia.ca
Page 9

1 in 5 Canadians have experienced caring for someone living with dementia.
FOOT ORTHOTICS
SLIPPERS, SHOES, BOOTS, SANDALS
Volunteer Opportunities
Alzheimer Society Sarnia-Lambton provides help for
people living with dementia and their care partners.
We need people of all ages, skills, and interests to help
plan, coordinate, advocate, organize, lead and inspire.
We will do our best to match your skill set and interests
with our need for support.
How you can help:
• Support Groups
• Active Living Programs
• Day Program
• Special Events & Fundraising
• Young Leaders Collective
• Bingo Host
• Board of Directors
• Bilingual Translator
To get involved:
Julie Munday,
Certified Pedorthist
www.soledecisions.ca
ASK ABOUT IN-HOME SERVICE
303 Davis St, Sarnia • 888-971-6345
Seniors
Save
Young
@
Heart
Call: 519-332-4444
Email: dwhiting@alzheimersarnia.ca
Web: alzheimersarnia.ca
We are happy to support
Alzheimer’s Awareness
Free consultations - 519-336-6580
www.feigedentureclinics.com
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Tammy Maure
1249 London Rd
519-491-6778
PROUD PRINTER OF THE CLUB AND SUPPORTER OF
THE ALZHEIMER SOCIETY OF SARNIA-LAMBTON
Why I Volunteer...
The Alzheimer Society of Sarnia-Lambton has
been a huge part of my life for almost 14 years. My
mother, Pat, was diagnosed with vascular
dementia in 2012—a condition I knew very little
about. I reached out to Christine Wright, Education
Coordinator at the Society, who guided me
through what to expect in the years ahead. She
also encouraged me to join their Support Group, which became a lifeline
until my mum passed away in January 2016. I don’t think I could have
managed emotionally without the support of the Society. In 2015, I was
invited to join the Board of Directors. Over the next six years, I learned so
much about dementia and related illnesses while witnessing the Society’s
tremendous growth and increasing community impact. After completing
my six-year term, I stayed involved through the Fund Development
Committee, where I could share my graphic design skills to help create and
grow exciting fundraising events—and give the Society a refreshed image
within our community. Along the way, I’ve made lifelong friends—the most
amazing, creative, and caring people I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with.
I will continue my involvement with this wonderful organization for as long
as I’m able. Volunteering has been incredibly rewarding, and I encourage
everyone to get involved—you’ll be amazed at what you receive in return.
Sincerely,
The Dorothea Rivett Award
The Dorothea Rivett Award was
established in honour of long-time
Alzheimer Society of Sarnia-Lambton
supporter and volunteer, Dorothea
Rivett. Dorothea dedicated countless
hours to improving the lives of people
living with dementia and their care
partners, and she was known for
her compassion, commitment, and
willingness to help wherever needed.
Her legacy continues through this award,
which recognizes individuals who
exemplify her spirit of service. Each year,
the award is presented to individuals
who have made an outstanding
contribution to the Alzheimer Society
of Sarnia-Lambton-whether through
volunteerism, advocacy, fundraising or
community leadership. Nominees are
put forward by staff, board members,
and volunteers, and are selected based
on their demonstration of dedication,
initiative. and a positive impact on the
lives of those affected by dementia. By
honouring recipients with the Dorothea
Rivett Award, we celebrate not only
their achievements, but also the values
Dorothea championed: compassion,
selflessness, and an unwavering
commitment to making a difference.
Corporation or Business Winner ~ Vision ‘74 (Heather Martin)
Leading with Heart: Vision ‘74’s
Legacy of Giving
Vision ‘74 has been a pillar
of support for the Alzheimer
Society for over 25 years,
standing with us through decades
of growth and community need.
Under the leadership of CEO Heather
Martin and her predecessor Bernie Bax,
the organization has not only funded
vital programs and sponsored major
events, but also embraced a culture of
community-minded leadership. A former
Chair of our Board. Heather continues
to lead by example, encouraging her
team to actively support charitable and
health care organizations across Sarnia-
Individual Winner ~ Marielle Knight Willock
Styling Change: Marielle Knight
Willock’s Mission of Impact
Marielle Knight Willock is
more than a talented hair
stylist, she’s a force of good in
our community. With a heart
for service and a passion for
the Alzheimer Society’s mission,
Marielle has championed our cause
through tireless advocacy and creative
fundraising. A consistent top fundraiser
in our IG Wealth Management Walk
for Alzheimer’s, she has also sold
(Diane Robb)
Lambton. Vision ‘74 exemplifies
what it means to uplift a
community through consistent,
meaningful philanthropy. Vision
‘74’s legacy of support has
helped the Alzheimer Society
grow its reach and impact.
Their partnership is rooted in a
shared mission: to improve the quality
of life for those living with dementia
and to empower families and caregivers
with support and resources. This award
honours both the enduring generosity of
Vision ‘74 and the Leadership of Heather
Martin, who continues to champion
compassionate dementia care every step
of the way.
countless raffle tickets, promoted
our events on social media,
and introduced our work
to new audiences through
her extensive network.
She has been instrumental
in connecting the agency’s
mission with new supporters and
donors through her advocacy. Her
dedication to fund development and
her role as a community connector
make her a true embodiment of what
this award stands for.
Page 10
alzheimersarnia.ca

Up to ¾ of those with dementia worldwide have not been diagnosed.
From Independent Living
to Comprehensive Care
DISCOVER THE
DIFFERENCE
A GREAT DAY
CAN MAKE.
Ways to reduce
dementia stigma:
Focus on what
a person with
dementia CAN do.
Join in on our Active Living
Programs including exercise,
art, music, and travel (from
the comfort of home) for
persons living with dementia
and their care partners.
10
Possible
Loss of initiative
Losing interest in spending
time with friends and family
and in taking part in activities.
Needing prompts to become
involved.
VISION74
519-332-8461 • www.vision74.com
’74 INC.
NURSING & REST HOME
Contact Vanessa
at 519-332-4444
to learn more.
Signs
of Dementia
Ten common signs of dementia are described below. If you are
concerned about any of these changes in yourself or someone else,
contact a health-care provider or your local Alzheimer Society.
Misplacing things
Putting things
in strange places,
like a remote in
the refrigerator.
Lambton County
Adult Enrichment Centres
In a safe and supportive environment, people who participate in
Adult Day Programs engage in a variety of social and physical
activities that improve their abilities and stimulate the mind and
body. Equally as vital, the program offers respite and support to
caregivers.
Adult Enrichment
CENTRE
In Lambton County, Ontario
To book your first free visit contact us:
adultenrichment@county-lambton.on.ca
Petrolia Site:
519-882-1470 ext. 5055
Monday to Saturday
9:00am to 3:00pm
Forest Site:
519-333-8166
Tuesday and Thursday
9:00am to 3:00pm
North Lambton
In Forest, Ontario
Marshall Gowland
In Sarnia, Ontario
www.LambtonCares.ca
Disorientation
in time and place
Not knowing what
day of the week
it is or getting lost
in a familiar place.
Sarnia Site:
519-336-3720 ext. 5719
Monday to Saturday
9:00am to 3:00pm
Lambton Meadowview
In Petrolia, Ontario
Changes in mood,
behaviour and
personality
Experiencing severe mood
changes or behaving out
of character, such as being
suspicious or withdrawing.
Difficulty doing
familiar tasks
Forgetting how to
do something you’ve
been doing your
whole life, such as
preparing a meal or
getting dressed.
Problems with
abstract thinking
Having difficulty
managing finances
or not knowing what
numbers are
and how they
are used.
Impaired judgment
Not recognizing
a medical problem that
needs attention or
wearing light clothing
on a cold day.
Changes in language
and communication
Forgetting words,
substituting words or using
the wrong words that
don’t fit the conversation.
Memory changes
that affect
day-to-day
abilities
Forgetting who
a family member is
or not remembering
new information.
Changes in sight
or motion
Not seeing objects when
walking or difficulty placing
items on a table.
alzheimersarnia.ca
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