First Link® Dementia Helpline

First Link® Dementia Helpline staff and volunteers give people affected by dementia the support they need, when they need it. Learn more out how you can find support or becoming a volunteer.

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If you have questions about Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias, call the Alzheimer Society of Newfoundland & Labrador's First Link® Dementia Helpline for information and support (toll-free):

  • English: 1-877-776-0608

About the First Link® Dementia Helpline

The First Link® Dementia Helpline is for anyone affected by dementia, whether professionally or personally. Helpline staff and volunteers give people the support they need, when they need it.

Through our First Link® Dementia Helpline, some of the topics you can learn about include:

  • General information about dementia.
  • Getting the diagnosis.
  • Progression of the disease, including its effect on communication and behaviour.
  • Personal planning.
  • Maintaining independence.
  • Providing care and support.
  • Resources available in your community, including support groups and upcoming education workshops.
  • Information about making your organization or community dementia friendly.

Every call to the First Link® Dementia Helpline is confidential.

Volunteering for the First Link® Dementia Helpline

As more families are affected by dementia, the need for volunteers to provide support through the First Link® Dementia Helpline continues to grow.

Volunteering for the Helpline provides opportunities for anyone interested in using effective communication skills and support strategies, connecting with people seeking information about Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias, or supporting people who have received a diagnosis.

A background in first response, social work, counselling, gerontology or health care is an asset but not mandatory, as an extensive training program is provided. Each volunteer contributes 3.5 hours weekly to support calls, with a minimum commitment of one year or 150 hours.

Interested in becoming a Helpline volunteer? Learn more about volunteering for the Helpline.