Your Society:Perth CountyChange Your Society

Alzheimer Society Huron Perth
1020 Ontario Street, Unit 5
Stratford, Ontario N5A 6Z3

Phone:519-271-1910

Email:info@alzhp.ca

Provincial Societies:

519-271-1910 / 1-888-797-1882

519-271-1910 / 1-888-797-1882

DONATE NOW

About dementia
- What is dementia?
  - What is dementia?The term "dementia" doesn't actually refer to one, specific disease. Rather, it's an overall term for a set of symptoms that are caused by disorders affecting the brain.
  - Common questions about dementiaGet the answers to the most common questions about dementia.
  - Dementia numbers in CanadaThe Alzheimer Society is committed to providing accurate and reliable data on dementia in Canada. Statistics listed on this page are the most current available and are updated periodically when new reports and studies are issued.
- What is Alzheimer's disease?
  - What is Alzheimer's disease?Alzheimer's disease is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that destroys brain cells, causing thinking ability and memory to deteriorate over time. Alzheimer's disease is not a normal part of aging, and is irreversible.
  - The history behind Alzheimer's diseaseWhile Alzheimer's has always been with us, attempts to understand and identify the disease and its impact didn't come about until very recently in human history.
  - The difference between Alzheimer's disease and other dementiaAlzheimer's disease and dementia do not mean the same thing. Understand the difference on this page.
  - How Alzheimer's disease changes the brainAlzheimer's disease can change the brain in many different ways, On this page, read about some of the changes you may expect as the disease progresses.
  - The stages of Alzheimer's diseaseAlzheimer's disease is usually described in terms of stages, indicating the severity of the symptoms. Learn about the stages on this page, from early stage to end of life.
  - Genetic testing and Alzheimer's diseaseGenetic testing can sometimes help identify whether a person has a high or low chance of developing Alzheimer's disease. On this page, find out more about genetic testing for Alzheimer's and whether it applies to you.
- Other types of dementia
  - Other types of dementiaWhile Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia, there are other types as well. Learn about them here.
  - LATE-NCLimbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy (or LATE-NC) is the most recently identified form of dementia, noted for its close similarity to Alzheimer’s.
  - Dementia with Lewy bodiesDementia with Lewy bodies – caused by abnormal 'Lewy bodies' deposits of protein called alpha-synuclein inside of the brain's nerve cells – shares many similarities with Parkinson’s disease.
  - Frontotemporal dementiaFrontotemporal dementia is an umbrella term for a group of rare disorders that primarily affect the areas of the brain associated with personality and behaviour.
  - Mixed dementiaIt's possible for someone to have more than one type of dementia. When this happens, it's known as mixed dementia.
  - Vascular dementiaThe most common type of dementia after Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia occurs when the brain’s blood supply is blocked or damaged, causing brain cells to be deprived of oxygen and die.
  - Young-onset dementiaWhen symptoms of dementia start before the age of 65, we use the term "young onset dementia."
  - Rare types of dementiaThere are many conditions that, in rare cases, can lead to dementia. Learn about them in this section.
  - Conditions related to dementiaLearn about conditions similar to dementia in this section.
- Do I have dementia?
  - Do I have dementia?If you're unsure whether you have dementia, this section will help you. Get answers to common questions. Recognize what's a warning sign and what's part of normal aging. Know when it may be time to seek a diagnosis.
  - The 10 warning signs of dementiaWhether you’re concerned for yourself or someone you care about, it's important to know the warning signs of dementia so you can ensure an early diagnosis. Here are 10 of the most common warning signs for dementia.
  - The differences between normal aging and dementiaIf you are experiencing difficulties with memory, know that they may not be signs of dementia. It could be memory loss as a part of normal aging.
  - How to get tested for dementiaIf you or someone you know is concerned about having dementia, it’s important that you can identify the warning signs, know when to talk to your doctor and understand how dementia is diagnosed. Follow these steps.
- How can I prevent dementia?
  - How can I prevent dementia?The most effective way to prevent Alzheimer's disease and other dementias is to minimize the risk factors and make healthy lifestyle choices that benefit both your body and brain.
  - Brain-healthy tips to reduce your risk of dementiaThis page lists evidence-based tips and strategies to help you lead a healthy, balanced lifestyle that protects your brain and reduces your risk of dementia.
  - Diabetes and dementiaWhat's the connection between diabetes and dementia? Learn more about this particular risk factor for dementia.
  - Risk factors for dementiaWhen it comes to dementia, there are risk factors you can change, and risk factors you cannot. Learn about both types on this page, as well as unproven risks that need more evidence to be considered valid.
- How can I treat dementia?
  - How can I treat dementia?There are currently no treatments that can reverse cognitive decline brought on by dementia. However, there are approaches you can take that can help you fight symptoms and maintain your quality of life for as long as possible.
  - Medications approved to treat Alzheimer's diseaseThere are no treatments today that can cure Alzheimer’s disease. However, there are currently four medications, approved by Health Canada, that can treat symptoms of the disease. Learn about them on this page.
  - Alternative treatments for dementiaThere are other ways to treat dementia that don't involve taking medications. However, it's important to know which alternative treatments have the evidence that proves that they are effective.
  - Potential treatments for dementiaLearn about the rigorous process to get a potential treatment for Alzheimer's disease or another type of dementia approved and available for the public.
  - Cannabis and the treatment of dementiaWhile there is ongoing promising research on the effects of cannabis, there is currently no evidence that cannabis is useful for the treatment or prevention of Alzheimer’s disease.
  - The risk of using antipsychotic medications to treat dementiaThe Alzheimer Society recommends that antipsychotics only be used as a last resort to treat behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia, especially in older adults. Instead, person-centred care is recommended as a first measure.
- Stigma against dementia
  - Stigma against dementiaStigma is one of the biggest barriers for people living with dementia to live fully with dignity and respect. Help us fight stigma by learning more about its effects and taking steps to reduce its impact.
  - 10 easy ways to fight stigma against dementiaFighting stigma is easier than you think. Learn how you can make a positive impact on the lives of people living with dementia.
  - How Canadians perceive dementiaMany Canadians acknowledge that people living with dementia regularly experience many forms of stigma. But there is still more work to be done to reduce stigma. Understand the results from our most recent Awareness Survey.
  - Myths and realities of dementiaMyths and misconceptions about Alzheimer's disease and dementia abound – what it is, who gets it, and how it affects the people who have it. These myths stand in the way of understanding the disease and helping those affected.
  - What does stigma against dementia look like?Stigma not only hurts people living with dementia, it discourages their families from confiding in others or getting the support they need. On this page, learn how to recognize stigma against dementia.
- About dementiaIn this section, learn more about dementia, including its most common type (Alzheimer's disease), other types of dementia and evidence-based recommendations on preventing and treating the disease.
Help and support
- Programs and services
  - Programs and servicesThe Alzheimer Society of Perth County can help you by providing information, education, support, counselling and resources. Use this page as your guide to find the care and support you may need.
  - First Link^®If you are newly diagnosed with dementia, First Link® can connect you to the help you need as soon as possible.
  - The First Link^® Learning SeriesThe Alzheimer Society of Perth County offers the First Link® Learning Series for people who are living with or caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia.
  - Learning the Ropes for Living with MCI^®Learning the Ropes for Living with MCI® is a healthy living program that supports people living with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in Perth County.
  - Minds in Motion^®Through Minds in Motion®, people living with early to mid-stage dementia will experience meaningful and beneficial socialization and stimulation through a number of appropriate activities. Learn more about the program on this page.
  - Virtual Social RecreationLooking for some online recreational activities? Here are some fun things you can do while you're staying at home due to COVID-19.
  - Find support in Perth CountyThe Alzheimer Society of Perth County offers a variety of services to support people living with dementia and their care partners.
  - Public awareness and community groupsWe provide many learning opportunities for the general public. Through these opportunities and sessions, you can learn more about dementia and how you can help make our community more dementia-friendly.
- I'm living with dementia
  - I'm living with dementiaOur mission is to support you. The Alzheimer Society can provide you with the information and resources to help you manage your diagnosis, assert your rights, live well with dementia, plan for your future and more.
  - First steps after diagnosisYou've likely been worried and anxious about the changes you're seeing in yourself. Now that you've been diagnosed, know that there are education and resources to support you. Learn the first steps to living well with dementia.
  - Talking about your diagnosisIf you've just been diagnosed with dementia, you may need some time before sharing the news – or you may want to talk about it right away. However your approach, this page can help you with strategies for communication.
  - Managing the changes in your abilitiesDementia impacts your cognitive, emotional, physical and social abilities. Understand how these changes can affect you, and know how you can prepare and adjust accordingly to live well with dementia.
  - Living well with dementiaA diagnosis of dementia does not mean your life is over. This section provides you with strategies to live well with dementia, along with tips and advice from other people who are living with dementia.
  - Planning for your futureAs your dementia progresses, it can become difficult to make choices about your care, finances and other important decisions. However, there are a number of things you can do now to ensure your wishes are communicated, heard and respected.
- I'm caring for a person living with dementia
  - I'm caring for a person living with dementiaUnderstanding dementia and its progression is vital to ensure that both you and the person with dementia can live as well as possible. We have the resources to support you and your care of the person living with dementia.
  - What to expect as the person's dementia progressesCaring for someone with dementia can be a great reward but it can be challenging at times. Prepare yourself by knowing what to expect.
  - Looking after yourselfProviding care for someone living with dementia takes a tremendous toll on the physical and emotional health of the primary caregiver, yet many caregivers often don't recognize the warning signs, or deny its effects on their health.
  - Understanding symptomsDementia can affect the personality and behaviour of the person living with the disease. Learn more about understanding and responding to these changes associated with dementia.
  - Providing day-to-day careYou want to make every day the best day possible. Caring for someone with dementia can be a great reward but it can be challenging at times. Prepare yourself with these tips.
  - Ensuring safety and securityDementia can affect a person’s physical abilities and mental acuity. Learn more about protecting yourself or a family member who has dementia.
  - Long distance caregivingToday, family members often live at some distance from each other. When a relative needs increasing support, caring from a distance presents additional and special problems.
  - Long-term careWhen a person living with dementia needs full time support, moving to a long-term care home may be the next step for you and your family.
  - End-of-life careThe needs of people with dementia at the end of life are unique and require special considerations. This section can help you prepare for end of life, make some of the difficult decisions you may face, and cope with the grief and loss you might experience
- I have a friend or family member who lives with dementia
  - I have a friend or family member who lives with dementiaSomeone you know – a parent, a sibling, a friend, a coworker – has dementia. What can you do to help? Learn more about dementia and how you can be dementia-friendly.
  - First steps for families after diagnosisKnowing the following tips may help make life easier and more enjoyable for you and the person living with dementia as well as to prepare for the future.
  - Understanding how your relationship may changeDementia can change many aspects of a relationship, but not the need for love and affection.
  - Communicating with people living with dementiaUnderstand how dementia affects communication, and learn some useful strategies to help communication throughout the progression of the disease.
  - Ways to helpFriends, neighbours and extended family are important sources of support for the family. Perhaps you want to help but don't know where to begin. This page will give you some ideas of how you can offer practical help and show that you care.
  - Managing ambiguous loss and griefThe issue of loss and grief is one of the most significant issues when supporting people living with dementia and their caregivers. Losses and grieving occur in different ways at all stages in the dementia caregiving journey.
  - Making meaningful visitsWhether you are visiting someone with dementia every day or just once in a while, making the most of your time together will mean a more meaningful visit for both of you!
  - Helping children understand dementiaDementia can be a hard concept for younger children to understand.
  - Helping teens understand dementiaThis page can help you give teenagers information they can use to understand what's happening.
  - Holidays and special occasionsFor some of us, holidays or other special life events can be stressful, particularly if you are a caregiver or a person living with dementia. Unfamiliar places, large groups of people, noise and a hectic pace can create a lot of anxiety.
- I'm a healthcare provider
  - I'm a healthcare providerLearn more about dementia and how you can ensure quality person-centred care for people living with the disease.
  - Dementia education for healthcare providers in Perth CountyIf you're a healthcare provider, the Alzheimer Society of Perth County can connect you to an educational opportunity near you. In addition, learn more about the variety of Ontario-based resources available to you across the province.
  - Providing person-centred careFostering a person-centred approach to care will improve the quality of care for people with dementia and their families.
  - Person-centred care of people with dementia living in care homesThe Alzheimer Society of Canada looked for evidence-based research that shows how to successfully implement person-centred programs and practices in long-term care homes. Here is the result.
  - Diagnosis and screeningTools for healthcare professionals to support dementia screening, assessment, and early diagnosis.
  - Making a referral with First Link®Find out how you can use First Link® to refer a person newly diagnosed with dementia to their local Alzheimer Society, connecting them to help and support in their community.
  - Addressing ambiguous loss and grief as a healthcare providerPractical resources to help healthcare professionals understand loss and grief associated with dementia.
  - Professional developmentA selection of training and e-learning modules as well as useful resources.
  - Other resources and tools for healthcare providersGet resources on driving, pain, dementia research, self-management, long-term care and more.
- I'm a first responder
- I'm a financial professional
- Dementia resources
  - Dementia resourcesLooking for more information on dementia? Get brochures, videos, our recommendations for assistive products and more.
  - National resource libraryBrowse our resource library to learn more about dementia. We cover a wide range of topics and audiences.
  - Information in other languagesThe Alzheimer Society of Canada presents all its information in English and French. The links here provide information about Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias in other languages.
  - Managing through COVID-19
  - Shopping for assistive productsAssistive devices can help individuals perform a task that they might otherwise be unable to do, or simply make the task easier and safer to perform.
  - Video resourcesThese videos can help you understand more about dementia, know what to expect and how to provide dementia care.
- Education Sessions
- Help and supportWhether you want to learn more about the programs and services we offer, or find dementia-related information specific to your needs, the Alzheimer Society has the education and resources to help you.
Take action
- Donate
- Fundraise and participate
  - Fundraise and participateThere are plenty of ways to get involved! Learn more about how you can raise funds for the Alzheimer Society of Perth County.
  - Lights On Stratford
  - Create your own fundraiserAnything for Alzheimer's! Create your own event to raise funds for the Alzheimer Society of Perth County!
  - IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer's 2023Join the movement! The IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer's builds on the strength of thousands of community walks across the country. It’s a great opportunity to raise awareness and much-needed funds to support programs and services in Perth County.
  - Soup's On 2023Back in person, Saturday, January 14, 2023 from 11:00 am - 2:00 pm at the Stratford Rotary Complex
  - Social with a PurposeSocial with a Purpose is a do-it-yourself fundraiser that promotes the importance of socializing, staying in touch, and building strong, positive relationships with your friends, family, and community.
  - Coffee Break^®Coffee Break® is our major annual fundraiser where friends, co-workers and customers gather in communities across Ontario to raise funds for their local Alzheimer Society.
  - 2023 Golf TournamentsWe are excited for our 20th Annual FORE! The Memories Golf Tournament on Monday, September 18th
- Become dementia-friendly
  - Become dementia-friendlyBy understanding the everyday experiences of people living with dementia, you can better accommodate their needs and help them live well. Becoming dementia-friendly will make a direct impact on the people living with dementia in your community.
  - Dementia-Friendly CanadaBy the end of the decade, almost one million Canadians will live with dementia. The impact of dementia is and will continue to be felt across all borders, sectors and cultures. We must act and build a dementia-friendly Canada now.
  - Meaningful engagement of people living with dementiaMeaningful engagement is a person-centred approach that encourages and invites people living with dementia to participate in an organization's work with purpose and interest. By practicing meaningful engagement, you can benefit from people living with dem
  - Using person-centred languageThe Alzheimer Society has developed language guidelines for anyone who lives with, supports, or works with a person living with dementia or caregiver. These guidelines can help you promote consistent, respectful language around dementia.
- Change minds
  - Change mindsLearn how you can help us raise awareness and fight stigma against dementia in Canada.
  - Alzheimer's Awareness MonthJanuary is Alzheimer's Awareness Month in Canada. Learn what that means and how you can get involved.
  - Canada's national dementia strategyLearn more about Canada's first ever-national dementia strategy and the importance of having it fully funded.
  - The Canadian Charter of Rights for People with DementiaAs a person living with dementia, the Charter can help you assert your rights to live free of stigma, benefit from all of Canada's civic and legal rights, participate in policies that affect you and more.
  - Dementia Journey SurveyThe Alzheimer Society of Canada, in partnership with the College of Family Physicians of Canada, is asking you to participate in this 20-minute survey to help us understand your experience with the care you receive from your family physician.
  - Dementia Journey SurveyThe Alzheimer Society of Canada, in partnership with the College of Family Physicians of Canada, is asking you to participate in this 20-minute survey to help us understand your experience with the care you receive from your family physician.
- Share your experiences
- Volunteer Opportunities
- Take actionYou want to make a difference and we need your help! Whether you have a small amount of time or want to get involved on a regular basis, there are a number of ways you can help.
Research
- The Alzheimer Society Research Program
  - The Alzheimer Society Research ProgramOn this page, learn more about the Alzheimer Society Research Program, including funding opportunities for researchers, when applications open and highlights from previous ASRP funded research.
  - Latest funding resultsWe're pleased to announce the following 2020 grants and awards for the Alzheimer Society Research Program, funding Canadian researchers in the field of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, in the following areas of research.
  - Funding results historySee the past ASRP-funded projects that advanced dementia research in Canada, sorted by year.
- 10 priorities for dementia research in Canada
- Meet our researchers
- Participate in research
- Information for researchers
  - Information for researchersAre you a researcher currently funded by the Alzheimer Society Research Program, or interested in applying? Get all the information and resources you need in this section.
  - Apply to the Alzheimer Society Research ProgramInterested in applying to the latest ASRP Research Competition? On this page, learn what to know before applying, when to apply and get answers to frequently asked questions about submissions, awards and grants.
  - How ASRP funding gets determinedIn 2020, the Alzheimer Society Research Program received over 200 applications. Understand the process that determines which research projects among the final applicants receive funding.
  - Find participants for your studyThrough the Alzheimer Society Research Portal, you can get connected to people living in Canada who want to do their part in advancing dementia research – and want to participate in a study like yours!
  - Report forms for currently funded researchersFill out and submit your progress and final reports, as well as your conference evaluation form.
- Latest research news
- Reports on dementia
- ResearchResearch moves us forward. Your support will get us closer to life-altering treatments, better care and cures for Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.
What's happening
- What's happeningGet the latest news about dementia, read the stories of people with lived experience and find out about events happening across Canada and near you.
About us
- About usThe Alzheimer Society of Perth County is a non-profit corporation and a registered charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors.

Your society is set to: Alzheimer Society of Perth County. Change Your Society. Close

The First Link^® Learning Series

The Alzheimer Society of Perth County offers the First Link® Learning Series for people who are living with or caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia.

For more information about the First Link^® Learning Series or to register for an upcoming workshop, please contact the Education Coordinator:

Phone: 519-271-1910 ext. 21

Toll-free: 1-888-797-1882

Email: christyb@alzhp.ca

What is the First Link® Learning Series?

The First Link^® Learning Series is made up of six distinct courses that are progressive in nature. Each course builds upon the other to provide participants with a comprehensive overview of dementia, coping strategies, resources and support systems.

These courses are facilitated by staff of the Alzheimer Society of Perth County and feature various community partners as guest speakers.

The six courses that make up the Learning Series are:

First Steps for people with dementia and caregivers
Taking Control of Our Lives
Next Steps for families and friends
Care essentials
Options for care
Care in the later stages

First Steps for persons with dementia and their family

The first course in the First Link^® Learning Series is designed for the person living with dementia and their primary caregiver.

Through this course, participants can understand their diagnosis and the changes they experience. It also offers an opportunity to share and connect with others.

Topics covered during this course include:

What is dementia?
Memory loss and changes to the brain
Coping strategies
Drugs and treatments
Future planning
Community resources

First Steps is offered weekly in two-hour sessions over a four-week period.

Taking Control of Our Lives

This eighteen hour series held for two hours weekly over nine weeks will offer the person living with dementia and their primary caregiver an opportunity to find their voice, and be empowered to overcome the stigma associated with dementia.

Topics covered in this course include:

What is dementia?
Communication Strategies
Adapting to Change
Living Safely in the Community
Finding Meaning and Purpose
Building Connections
Staying Well

This program is offered twice annually in the Spring and Fall.

Next Steps for families and friends

This eight hour series will offer family members and friends caring for persons with dementia an overview of dementia.

Topics covered in this course include:

What is dementia?
Memory loss and changes to the brain
Coping strategies
Drugs and treatments
Future planning
Community resources

Care essentials

This eight hour series will offer family members and friends caring for persons with dementia problem solving strategies, approaches for communication and available avenues for support, all of which can strengthen their ability to provide care in the middle stages of the disease.

Topics covered in this course include:

Progression of dementia
Understanding behavior
Day-to-day care
Community resources

Options for care

This two hour session is offered in partnership with the South-West LHIN and is designed to help family members and friends caring for people with dementia evaluate their current care giving needs and explore other possible care options, including long-term care.

Topics covered in this course include:

Where to turn when care needs are increasing
Long-Term Care – how the system works
Coping with change – how to make the transition

Care in the later stages

This six hour series is offered in partnership with a long-term care home and is designed to help family members and friends of persons with dementia understand what to expect in the later stages of the disease. The series will explore how participants can provide comfort to the person as well as review the experiences of grief and loss.

Topics covered in this course include:

Natural course of the later stages
How to recognize pain and distress
How to provide care that promotes dignity, comfort and quality of life