Wellness Program

Program Description

The Wellness Program is part of our Early Stage Programs for persons living with early stage dementia or memory change. The Wellness Program offers an opportunity to meet with peers in a social setting and focus on strengths and abilities, while adapting to the challenges of living with dementia. Participants build capacity and resilience as they participate in meaningful activities in a safe and inclusive environment. 

Possible Activities

• Seated exercises
• Music
• Art lessons
• Armchair travels
• Guest speakers from the community
• Gardening
• Brain games

*Activities are tailored to match the interests of the group members.

Participation Criteria

Participation in the Wellness Program includes an individual assessment completed by the Early Stage Wellness Coordinator to determine eligibility and ensure the program is a good fit for each participant.

To be eligible, individuals must:

• Have a diagnosis of dementia or a related cognitive condition
• Be aware of changes in cognition and function
• Be medically stable
• Be able to participate independently in a group setting
• Be interested in social engagement with peers
• Be comfortable participating in group discussion

Participants must be able to remain safely in the group space independently. Staff are not able to provide one-to-one supervision or prevent exit-seeking behaviours.

Waitlist & Program Timing

Once eligibility is confirmed through the assessment process, participants may be placed on a waitlist of up to 12 weeks, depending on current group capacity and the timing of the program cycle.

Because the Wellness Program runs in set 8-week group sessions, new participants typically begin at the start of the next session to support group cohesion, comfort, and continuity for all participants.

How to Register

To learn more about the Wellness Program or any of our Early Stage Programs, please contact Melissa Ricciuto, Wellness and Early Stage Coordinator at 905-687-6856 ext. 543