Minds in Motion^®

What is Minds in Motion?

Give your mind and body a boost! 

Minds in Motion® is a community-based social program that incorporates physical activity and mental stimulation for people with early to mid-stage signs of dementia and their care partners.  

Who can participate? 

Individuals concerned about their memory, individuals living with cognitive change or dementia and their care partners are welcome to attend! 

Participants must be able to engage independently in the program or be accompanied by a care partner.  Please note this is not a respite program and staff are unable to provide personal care support, physical or medical assistance, and are not able to prevent participants from leaving the venue.  If you require respite services contact our office at 807-345-9556 and we will be happy to help you explore your options. 

The program 

The program runs for 8 week sessions every Wednesday and Thursday from 1:30-3:30pm at the Oliver Road Community Centre. Participants register for either the Wednesday or Thursday Sessions. The program offers: 

• Gentle and easy to follow physical exercise led by a certified instructor.  
• Fun social activities focused on exercising Brain Health and enhancing Community Connection.  

Social activity examples 

• Educational booth presentations from the Thunder Bay Museum. 
• Socially engaging trivia games (Family Feud, Jeopardy) 
• Crafts (paint afternoons, holiday themed workshops) 
• And many more!   

Benefits of Minds in Motion

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:

• Sharpened mental functioning, sometimes lasting 2-3 days.
• Increased sense of social participation

Program Capacity: 

A maximum of 11 couples, or 22 participants, enrolled in each eight-week program. This ensures that all participants feel included and receive quality programing.  

Minds in Motion® Program Participation Successes:

• Participants’ endurance improved by 20% and strength by 15%.
• Participants reported decreased social isolation and an increase in informal networks of support
• 79% of participants continue with physical and social programs after participating
• 90% of staff, volunteers and students identified an increase in their dementia knowledge

Feedback from Participants

"I enjoyed participating in both the physical exercise and the 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 most helpful. Pleasant and understanding- it’s been a very worthwhile course.” - Person with Dementia

“Both my Mom and Dad are transformed when they are at this simple yet effective program. Minds in Motion gives them a place to not only engage in physical activity but also develop a supportive social network with others in the group.” - Patrick T, Care partner

Join us!

To sign up as a participant pair, or for more information on registering or volunteering contact Katie Bond, our Public Education Coordinator. You can reach Katie by phone (807)-345-9556 Extension 2010. Or email at kbond@alzheimerthunderbay.ca