A new educational program in the Tri-Cities will help families who are coping with the impact of dementia diagnosis.
Shaping the Journey, which begins April 13, is designed for people experiencing the early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia, as well as a care partner, family member or friend.
"It is for people who want to explore the journey ahead in a positive and supportive environment," says Katherine Guilbride, the First Link co-ordinator for the Alzheimer Society of BC, which is putting on the series.
"Educating yourself will allow you to gain an understanding of what you and your family members are faced with, giving you the skills and confidence to maintain quality of life, both now and in the future."
The program will cover:
the brain and dementia;
hearing the diagnosis;
maintaining your general health;
life after diagnosis;
planning ahead;
and maintaining your spirit.
Another benefit of the program is that participants will meet others going through similar experiences.
Shaping the Journey runs Wednesdays, April 13 to May 11, from 1:30 to 4 p.m. in Coquitlam. Tri-City residents interested in participating must contact Guilbride as soon as possible. She will conduct a brief interview to determine whether the program will be able to meet your current needs.
Seats are limited so pre-registration is encouraged. For more information and to register, call Guilbride at the North Fraser Alzheimer Society Resource Centre, 604-298-0711 or [email protected].
More information on Alzheimer's disease and related dementias is available at www.alzheimerbc.org.
