Minds in Motions® participants thank volunteers for creating dementia-friendly spaces

This National Volunteer Week, we join organizations across Canada to applaud the volunteers who enable us to organize events and provide support to people affected by dementia. From April 25-30, read stories shared by volunteers, Society staff and clients that celebrate the positive impact volunteers have on our communities.

When Hiroko Turnbull’s husband Ian began experiencing changes with his memory around five years ago, their family doctor referred them to a geriatric specialist who determined the changes Ian was experiencing were associated with pre-Alzheimer’s disease.

Shortly after, the Turnbulls were connected to the Alzheimer Society of B.C. and introduced to Minds in Motion®, a social and fitness program for people living with dementia and their care partners.

The couple soon became regular members of classes held at the South Arm Community Centre in Richmond. They are very grateful for the well-timed recommendation.

“Minds in Motion® is like a family,” Ian says. “The volunteers make the place so welcoming.”

The Turnbulls are especially grateful to have a space where they can comfortably speak up and share their experiences without any judgement or criticism.

“A lot of the participants and volunteers have unique backgrounds,” says Hiroko. “But when we share our stories of the past, we learn that as people, we actually have a lot in common. In this case, our dementia journeys have brought us all together.”

Hiroko and Ian love when volunteers share their stories and inquire about theirs, making programs like Minds in Motion® feel much more personal. “The volunteers really help get people talking and create conversations that bring us closer together,” Ian adds.

“I actually thought kindness was simply a part of their role,” Hiroko says with a laugh. “But each volunteer is so genuine in their desire to connect with us.”

Ian says every volunteer has made an effort to remember their names. “It feels amazing to walk into the room with volunteers greeting you by name, with everything set up and ready for the class,” he says.

The volunteers have always had a positive impact on Hiroko and Ian, lifting their spirits and giving them more energy to move. “We really miss their presence when they’re not around,” Hiroko says.

Since the pandemic began, Ian and Hiroko have continued to take part in Minds in Motion® Online and their connection with the volunteers is one of the reasons they are encouraged to return each week. “It’s such an enjoyable way to spend an hour and a half, where everyone is invited to participate,” Ian says.

“I really want all the volunteers I’ve met to know how wonderful they are,” Hiroko adds.