Minds in Motion®

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Connecting people living with early to mid-stage symptoms of dementia through exercise, socialization and stimulating activities.

People participating in exercise class

In-person and programs are being offered starting in January, 2025. 

Alliston

Gibson Centre (63 Tupper Street West)

Mondays 1 pm – 3 pm

January 6th – March 3rd (excluding February 17th)

 

Wasaga Beach

Wasaga Beach United Church (380 Zoo Park Road)

Thursdays 10 am – 12 pm

January 9th – February 27th

 

Barrie

Allandale Recreation Centre (190 Bayview Drive)

Tuesdays 1 pm – 3 pm

January 21st – March 11th

 

Parkview Community Centre (189 Blake Street)

Wednesdays 10 am – 12 pm

January 22nd – March 12th

 

If you are interested in registering for this free community-based program, please contact Kennedy at our office by email at kcapson@alzheimersociety.ca or call her at 705-710-1066 ext. 232.

 

What is Minds in Motion®?

Minds in Motion® is a community-based social program that incorporates physical activity and mental stimulation for people with early to mid-stage signs dementia and their care partners.  Minds in Motion® take place over two-hour weekly fitness and social program that runs for eight weeks at a time. It is designed for people with early to moderate symptoms of dementia to attend with a family member or friend.

Program Details

  • Limit of 22 participants (11 pairs).
  • In some circumstances individual living with dementia may register on their own, please connect with us for more information on this option
  • Program includes up to 50 minutes of gentle exercises followed by refreshments and 50 minutes activities that stimulate your brain.
  • In Simcoe County, we do not charge for the program (fees may vary across regions).

Program Activities

  • Engage in chair exercises that improve overall fitness.
  • Meet and socialize with others over refreshments and conversation.
  • Stimulate the brain with fun and challenging activities.
  • Access information about dementia and Alzheimer Society services.

Program benefits

For the person with dementia:

  • Improved balance, mobility, flexibility, and alertness
  • Increased confidence, and comfort with their own circumstance
  • Mutual support from others facing similar experiences

For the care partners, it’s an opportunity to focus on their own health, and have fun with their partner. Other benefits include:

  • Seeing the person they are caring for enjoying themselves
  • Mutual support and learning from other care partners

All participants can benefit from:

  • Increased sense of social participation

 

Why join the program? Here's what participants had to say about it:

"I enjoyed participating in both physical exercise and social activities. It was wonderful meeting and getting to know all the participants. A great group! Overall, a great program. We both love coming. Leaders are excellent - always empathetic and great teachers.” –Care Partner

“The people involved are the most helpful. Pleasant and understanding- it’s been a very worthwhile course.” - Person with Dementia