Early Stage Programs
Our Early Stage Programs offer an opportunity for individuals living with early-stage dementia or cognitive change to connect with peers in a supportive environment.
Anyone who is interested in participating in one of our early-stage programs is invited to make a referral through our First Link® Program to discuss eligibility and program criteria, or call us at 905-687-3914.
Beyond Words Learning Series
The Beyond Words Early Stage Learning Series is an 8-week program for persons with early stage dementia and their care partners that provides an opportunity to meet with peers and share coping strategies to help adapt to the challenges of living with dementia.
Learning the Ropes for Living with MCI
Learning the Ropes for Living with MCI® is a 6-week evidence-based program developed by Baycrest Health Sciences that supports people living with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The program focuses on optimizing brain health through:
- Memory training: Practical in-session and take-home exercises aimed at improving everyday remembering, such as memory for names, appointments, location of items, and things to do.
- Lifestyle choices: Learn how stress, diet, and leisure activities influence memory ability.
- Family and social support: Build your social network of support among peers and discover approaches for effectively supporting a family member or friend living with MCI.
Partners in care are invited to join Learning the Ropes for Living with MCI® in a separate group to learn more about how to support someone living with MCI.
Wellness Program
The Wellness Program offers an opportunity to meet with peers in a social setting and focus on strengths and abilities, while participating in meaningful activities that promote positive brain health.
Seasonal Social Society
The Seasonal Social Society consists of 4 large social programs throughout the year. Past events have included musical entertainment, trivia and special guests from the community. Stay in touch with peers and create new connections at one of our quarterly social programs!
Click here to register for our upcoming social programs.
Advisory Group
The Advisory Group is a group of persons living with dementia or cognitive impairment that share their lived experiences, knowledge, and ideas to guide the work of the Alzheimer Society.
Connections Early-Stage Newsletter
Connections is a quarterly newsletter for persons with early-stage dementia developed in response to their request for information that reflects their identified needs, goals and interests. The newsletter provides opportunities to connect with one another, share ideas, strategies and perspectives. Persons with early-stage dementia are encouraged to contribute to the newsletter.
Archive
Connections First
Connections First is an 2 hour interactive forum that explores living well with or without memory changes. This program runs monthly and is open to persons concerned with normal aging, persons living with a diagnosis of dementia, care partners or anyone who just wants to learn about keeping their brain healthy and plan for the future. Connections First is the perfect first step into the Alzheimer Societies education opportunities.
Topics Include:
- Strategies for maintaining a healthy brain
- Understanding Normal Aging vs Dementia
- Future Planning
- Community Resource Navigation