The Alzheimer Society of B.C. expands Yukon support services to include free dementia education and support groups

British Columbia

On November 16, Yukoners are invited to attend the free, two-hour, in-person dementia education to learn about dementia with an opportunity to share challenges that Yukoners are experiencing when affected by the disease.

in person workshop with participants

Last updated: November 7, 2023.

On November 16, Yukoners are invited to attend the free, two-hour, in-person dementia education to learn about dementia with an opportunity to share challenges that Yukoners are experiencing when affected by the disease.

Led by experienced staff from the Alzheimer Society of B.C., the education session will discuss dementia and its impact on people affected by dementia and strategies for helping to cope with the changes. The event is for people living with dementia, their caregivers and anyone interested in learning more about the disease.

Alzheimer Society of B.C. CEO Jen Lyle will be present to welcome participants and hear about the experiences with the disease and better understand the supports Yukoners need to maintain the best quality of life possible on the dementia journey.
 

Yukon dialogue: Getting to know dementia

  • Date: Thursday, November 16, 2023
  • Time: 4 to 6 p.m.
  • Location: Golden Age Society (4061A 4th Ave, Whitehorse)
  • Registration required: Call the First Link® Yukon Dementia Helpline at 1-888-852-2579.  

New virtual support groups

The Alzheimer Society of B.C. is launching two virtual support groups, one for people living with early-stage dementia and one for caregivers.

The support group for people living with early-stage dementia offers a place for people to express feelings and be validated, to build friends and to find a sense of hope.

Through the virtual caregiver support group, people who are caring for someone living with dementia – including spouses, parents, family or friends – can learn and share practical tips for coping with changes in behaviour and communications while also making connections with others in similar situations, learning from each other. 

“For many people, a dementia diagnosis can lead to a loss of community – whether due to stigma or challenges related to the disease itself,” says Jen Lyle, Alzheimer Society of B.C. CEO. “Programming like our support groups is designed to help people on the dementia journey make connections with other people with similar experiences and learn from each other.”

Virtual caregiver support group start date:

  • Meeting dates: Meets every fourth Wednesday of the month
  • Time: 2 p.m. (for 90 minutes)
  • Platform: Zoom

Virtual early-stage support group start date:

  • Meeting dates: Meets every fourth Wednesday of the month
  • Note: The December session will take place on December 6.
  • Time: 10 a.m. (for 90 minutes)
  • Platform: Zoom

To register for a support group or learn more about dementia support available in the Yukon, call the First Link® Yukon Dementia Helpline at 1-888-852-2579 (Available Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.)

The Alzheimer Society of B.C. is able to provide support services to families on the dementia journey in the Yukon thanks to a partnership with the Government of Yukon. “This collaboration is a significant step forward for people affected by the disease living in the Yukon. We want to ensure that people know they don’t have to face dementia alone,” Lyle says.

The term for this collaborative initiative between the Alzheimer Society of B.C. and the Government of Yukon is until March 31, 2024.