Upcoming webinars: Innovative approach to dementia care
Upcoming webinars redefining support and connection to people affected by dementia.
Caring for people living with dementia takes a lot of effort and it can require creativity and innovation to respond to a person’s needs. Using improvisation skills in communication, or technology like assistive robots and virtual reality, can create new ways to enhance quality of life in dementia care. This October, the Alzheimer Society of B.C. is offering free webinars for British Columbians to gain fresh perspective in caregiving, inspire innovative ideas and take meaningful steps towards improving the lives of people affected by dementia.
A dose of laughter: Improv for dementia
In this one-of-a-kind webinar, experienced improvisers Dan Dumsha and Sarah Ferguson of Tightrope Impro Theatre will introduce people affected by dementia to improvisation. Through a combination of demonstrations, games and exercises, participants will build new skills, share their creativity and laugh together! This webinar will focus on using improv as a tool for communication between people living with dementia and their care partners through exploring the core themes of saying yes, listening and engaging the imagination.
To register, visit: alzbc.org/improv-dementia
Research connects: Co-developing innovative technology – how assistive robots and virtual reality can improve dementia care
Join Dr. Lillian Hung from UBC’s IDEA lab and long-time advocate Jim Mann as they showcase the co-development of technology to improve dementia care. The pair will highlight how assistive robots, virtual reality and virtual team-based care is helping address the unique care challenges people living with dementia and their families face and reshaping the landscape of dementia care for the future. Discover how these innovative technologies can also alleviate feelings of loneliness and enhance social connection among people living with dementia.
To register: visit alzbc.org/tech
About the guest speakers
Dan Dumsha, Director of Improv for Work and Wellness
Dan is thrilled to lead Tightrope’s offerings for the Workplace and for Health & Wellness. His passion is to bring learners into the moment together, where co-creation can happen. A graduate of Queen's University Drama (B.A.H) and Artist in Community Education (B.Ed), Dan has been performing and teaching theatre and improv for over twenty years.
Sarah Ferguson, Youth and Teen Coordinator and Improv for Wellness Faculty Member
Sarah Ferguson is a Vancouver based actor, improvisor, and theatre-maker. Her work can be seen in film, television and on stage. She holds a diploma in Theatre Performance from Mount Royal University, and a BFA in Theatre from Simon Fraser University. She was the Volunteer Coordinator and Social Media Manager for the Canmore International Improv Festival, and a founding member of Sour Dog Theatre. Sarah is dedicated to developing exciting programming for Tightrope’s Youth & Teens, as well as working alongside the Improv for Wellness faculty to bring joy and laughter to folks living with compromised brain health. She is inspired by projects that represent her experiences as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and strives to use humour & vulnerability as tools for healing.
Dr. Lillian Hung
Dr. Lillian Hung is the founder and head of IDEA lab (Innovation in Dementia & Aging). Her research examines how technology and environment impact the care experiences of persons with dementia. She has expertise in patient-oriented research and knowledge translation. She is committed to facilitating connectivity between academia and practice, working collaboratively with interprofessional practitioners to find practical solutions to address pressing problems in care settings.
Jim Mann
Jim has long been an invaluable leader and partner in much of our work at the Alzheimer Society of B.C., both behind the scenes serving on our board of directors and contributing his expert knowledge and lived experience to numerous projects, as well as in the public eye, sharing his personal story to break down stigma and inspire others to take action over the last 14 years.
The University of British Columbia recently recognized Jim as the most influential person in Canada in countering stereotypes and building a more inclusive society for people living with dementia, awarding him an honorary Doctor of Laws degree.