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OPPORTUNITIES DEMENTIA VENTURES Would you like to help the Hub achieve its goals of creating a more inclusive community and increasing social citizenship of people living with dementia? Then please consider helping plan, implement and sustain meaningful activities. ​ Here are some opportunities for community members to become involved in Dementia Ventures. Please contact the Partner Organization directly or send a message to the Hub for details. Postings will remain here until a Partner notifies the webmaster that a position is no longer available. ​ KITSILANO NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSE ​ Kits House has launched a dementia awareness initiative. There are opportunities to join focus groups that will guide program development. There is a dementia buddies program with training to communicate and help people experiencing dementia live well in the community. Other awareness activities and conversations are planned to make our community more dementia friendly ​ Click here to find out more. WESTSIDE SENIORS HUB COUNCIL ​ The Hub Council is recruiting volunteers to join us and ensure that Westside neighbourhoods are places where seniors can thrive. We work collaboratively with Hub Partners on projects such as Dementia Ventures . For more information, please click here . SOUTH GRANVILLE SENIOR CENTRE Enabling Connections...A Tablet Lending Library South Granville Seniors Centre & Many Partners ​ “The four elements of the Enabling Connections program are: a tablet lending library, digital literacy mentoring, a virtual senior’s centre, and knowledge sharing with other organizations. The Enabling Connections project is focused on creating connections between individuals and creating a sense of community and mutual support, peer to peer.” Project launched May 6, 2021. Information here FAQ here The Seniors Centre offers a monthly Happy Memories Café that is a safe place to share your experiences, participate in discussions and build lasting friendships. Click here for information. FIREWEED CLUB Dunbar Residents Association & Kitsilano Neighbourhood House The Fireweed Club is a collaborative project bringing a variety of free outdoor activities to seniors on the westside. These activities are open to any seniors who want to stay active, socialize and build relationships. People living with memory loss or other invisible challenges are welcome to come by themselves or to bring their friends and care partners. The Club seeks participants, program leaders and volunteers all year. More information here .

DEMENTIA VENTURES GUIDES FOR INCLUSIVE PROGRAMMING CLICK in the links below REAWAKENING THE MIND (Arts 4 Dementia, London, UK) ​ “Arts interventions to re-energise and inspire people in the early stages of dementia and their carers.” The A4D model for music, dance, drama, poetry, museums & galleries with evaluation of impacts and outcomes for organizers, volunteers, arts facilitators & arts organizations. SHARING MEMORIES: REMINISCENCE ACTIVITIES (Lee County Library System, Florida) ​ Programs that find meaning in memories, storytelling, letter writing, community conversations and tips for success in engagement. HOW-TO GUIDES FOR WALKING GROUPS AND CAFÉS (Washington State Dementia Action Collaborative) ​ “Steps involved in planning, marketing, launching and sustaining a program…based on the experience of staff, volunteers and participants in local groups.” COMMUNITY-ENGAGED ARTS PRACTICE WITH SENIORS: A STARTUP GUIDE (Arts and Health, Canada) ​ “Community-engaged arts programs promote the health, well-being and social inclusion of older adults…address the gap between the existing supports available for well seniors in recreation facilities and those for very frail seniors…provide a forum for exploration, imagination, and communication that can transform individual lives and profoundly impact community life.” CREATING PARTNERSHIPS IN DEMENTIA CARE: A CHANGING MELODY TOOLKIT ( Research Institute for Aging ) ​ “It's a forum designed by and for persons with early-stage dementia and their family partners in care. The toolkit helps individuals, groups, and/or organizations plan and implement their own forums. DVDs are available featuring powerful presentations from past forums.” SOCIAL ISOLATION OF SENIORS: IDEAS EXCHANGE EVENT TOOLKIT “Toolkit is meant to help people and organizations host effective meetings to exchange ideas and respond to the social isolation of seniors in their communities. It contains tools, templates and support resources for hosting an ideas exchange event.” Back to Resources - Dementia Ventures

CURRENT HUB PARTNERS' PROJECTS Dementia Ventures i s a commitment by the Westside Seniors Hub Partner Organizations to offer diverse activities for people living with dementia and their care partners. These activities are designed to: reduce stigma sustain quality of life ​ The projects listed below are partially funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada via the Building Capacity for Meaningful Participation by People Living with Dementia umbrella project. Current Hub Partner project planning began in early 2020 and is evolving all the time! ​ For more information, click on a category below to learn more, or click on a Partner's name for their contact information. ​ COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS Hub Partners want to foster more inclusive communities . They engage a wide range of community members in plans and conversations to build and change programs, and increase awareness. ​ These Partners are currently working on projects to achieve those objectives. If you can participate in their projects, please click on the Partner's name and contact them directly. ​ Translink Awareness-Building Placards Thanks to an Implementation Fund grant from the Building Capacity for Meaningful Participation by People Living with Dementia project, the Hub’s Council has placed 210 awareness-building placards inside TransLink buses in Metro Vancouver during the summer. The three different designs developed by Building Capacity project team members Samantha Pineda Sierra and Heather Neale Furneaux, quote Action Committee members with lived experience from a special initiative known as The Flipping Stigma Project . These members’ comments reflect on what it feels like to be discriminated against because of their dementia. The campaign aims to increase awareness and encourage open and respectful conversations about living with dementia. Even if you don’t travel on public buses, you will want to take a look HERE at these engaging placards. ​ Kitsilano Community Centre Association offers a variety of physical, social, and multicultural programming sponsored two Memory Cafés in October aimed at gathering programming needs and ideas from people experiencing dementia and care partners Community Needs Assessment Group sponsored two Memory Cafés to gather community members' perspectives. An insightful report summarizes responses and diverse strategies for next steps in programming. steps forward ​ ​ West Point Grey United Church TLC (The Lunch Club) A program for seniors and people with dementia in the west side of Vancouver. A Four Part Series with educational component and group discussions. ​ Pacific Spirit United Church Congregation members at Pacific Spirit United Church created an insightful four-part series looking at dementia from a community perspective. It's called Beacon *shining light on Dementia and is available online here . ​ PROGRAM PLANNING Hub Partners are adapting existing programs to be more inclusive and planning new programs. They appreciate having community members participate at every stage - planning, implementing and sustaining - to build community capacity. If you can participate at any stage of program planning or implementation, please click on the name of a Hub Partner below for their project description and contact them directly. ​ A.S.K. Friendship Centre develop programs & design space purchase art supplies to diversify programs ​ Dunbar Residents Association identify assets & gaps in services for seniors adapt Salmonberry Days for inclusive programming organize Fireweed Club for outdoor activities in Balaclava Park, including development of a pollinator garden ​ Kitsilano Neighbourhood House promote dementia awareness with staff and volunteer trainings convene a focus group to include the voices of people living with dementia and care partners in meaningful activities engage Business Improvement Areas (BIA) in a series of dialogues ​ South Granville Seniors Centre Two Happy Memories Cafés English-language Café brochure here Spanish-language Café brochure here ​ Collaborative Project - Fireweed Club helping provide transportation to bring participants to outdoor events. opportunities to connect with the larger community and build new connections with people living with dementia in the community. summer schedule of activities in Vancouver's westside parks and plazas here included outings in ASK Society's van DISCOVERING COMMUNITY ASSETS These projects focus on identifying community members and services that can help build capacity to offer meaningful opportunities and adapt existing services to be more inclusive. ​ If you can participate in building capacity, please click on the Hub Partner's name for their contact them directly. ​ The Building Capacity Project - Dementia Ventures Offers engaging programs in order to help organizations make existing offerings more inclusive. Informs future policies and priorities in community and health settings for dementia inclusive communities. ​ Westside Seniors Hub - Transportation Initiative Model Programs that explore van-sharing and public transit challenges and solutions for seniors. ​ Westside Seniors Hub Develop a website to showcase Partners' projects and opportunities to get involved Invite diverse community members to become involved Collaborate with UBC Centre for Community Engaged Learning students involved as Community Action Mobilizers to conduct asset-mapping of Vancouver's westside neighbourhoods and promote community resilience planning for shocks & stressors

RESOURCES We also provide selected resources here for Dementia Ventures , since that is the Hub's focus in 2020-2023. Understanding & living with dementia Guides for inclusive Programming Tools for Engagement Research Reports & Data

DV News Top NEWS Ongoing CIRCA-CA: COMPUTER INTERACTIVE REMINISCING AND CONVERSATION AID IN CANADA Canadian Dementia & Learning Resources Network “This is a web-based conversation support tool that offers…multimedia content, including photographs, short videos, and audio to stimulate conversation, social engagement, and relationship building… for people living with dementia and their care partners to connect and engage, share memories, build relationships, and reminisce… This version of the project is specifically tailored for a Canadian audience…for use as a group or one-on-one activity.” Explore the resources here Ongoing FLIPPING STIGMA ON ITS EAR TOOLKIT Canadian Health Research Institute “The discrimination caused by stigma that accompanies a diagnosis of dementia needs to be ‘flipped on its ear’! The purpose of this toolkit is to r ecognize and respond to this stigma and discrimination . It has been designed by people with dementia to help others – including other people living with dementia, the people who support them, and those who do research – to address the challenges of stigma and discrimination.” Video clips demonstrate interactions and stimulate discussions. Sign up for the newsletter. . ​ Explore the website here Ongoing FAMILY CAREGIVING SUPPORT GROUPS Family Caregivers of BC “Support groups create a safe and confidential space. In a support group, Shared Understandings (also known as ‘ground rules’ or ‘group guidelines’) create this safe and confidential space for caregivers in group meetings.” There are several monthly virtual support groups at different times of day to accommodate busy schedules. Explore these and other caregiver resources here and sign up for FCBC’s newsletter. Information here Ongoing LEGAL RESOURCES FOR CAREGIVERS Family Caregivers of BC & Nidus BC Estate planning takes care of your assets when you die - a Will and Enduring Power of Attorney, but they do not cover health or personal care. “If you do not want government (Public Guardian and Trustee of BC) to be involved in your personal and private affairs, you will want to make arrangements in case you need help managing your affairs due to illness, injury, or disability while you are still alive . “Choose those you trust to advocate for you and carry out your wishes, if you need help speaking up for yourself” and prepare a Representation Agreement (RA) and Advance Directive (AD) . Read more about RA and AD here and here Ongoing MEMORY CAFÉ: COMMUNITY CENTRE PROGRAMS AND SUPPORT NEEDS FOR SENIORS EXPERIENCING MEMORY LOSS AND THEIR CAREGIVERS Kitsilano Community Centre Association Board The Association Board oversees programs at the community centre. “A Community Needs Assessment Group is charged to become better informed by the community… One gap that has been identified is tailored programs and supports specifically for those struggling with memory loss and supports and services for those caring for seniors with memory loss .” Two Memory Cafés were held November-December 2022 to gain community members’ perspectives and formulate some potential next steps . Read about the community responses and various strategies in their repor t Ongoing DEMENTIA IN CANADA: CROSS-COUNTRY REPORT CanAge “We wanted to find out where Canada is on the path to making this country dementia-inclusive … This report, the first of its kind in Canada, benchmarks the progress made in each province and territory to prepare for the rapidly growing rate of dementia... It also looks at our National Dementia Strategy, and the role the federal government has to play in stewarding, and funding a collaborative approach to this important work. We need to do better. We can do better.” Report here March-April 2023 DEMENTIA VENTURES AT KITS HOUSE You are invited to become involved in the Kits House Dementia Initiative: "create awareness and build community capacity to include the voices of people living with dementia and their care partners in meaningful activities. Participate in focus group Become a volunteer buddy Train as a community member Contact thaisl@kitshouse.org or call 604-736-3588 ext. 127​ Poster here Ongoing FLIPPING STIGMA ON ITS EAR TOOLKIT Canadian Health Research Institute “The discrimination caused by stigma that accompanies a diagnosis of dementia needs to be ‘flipped on its ear’! The purpose of this toolkit is to r ecognize and respond to this stigma and discrimination . It has been designed by people with dementia to help others – including other people living with dementia, the people who support them, and those who do research – to address the challenges of stigma and discrimination.” Video clips demonstrate interactions and stimulate discussions. Sign up for the newsletter. . ​ Explore the website here Ongoing THE CASE FOR ENGAGING PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA IN COMMUNITY SUPPORT EFFORTS United Way BC,Building Capacity Project, Westside Seniors Hub “Building Capacity Project team members discuss their grassroots approach to community support with and for people with dementia. They look at both the logistical side and the bigger picture side of how engaging and collaborating with people with lived experience fosters a culture of inclusion and decreases stigma.” Webinar recording and handout here DEMENTIA DIALOGUE PODCASTS Centre for Education and Research on Aging and Health (CERAH) Lakehead University Listeners who have dementia, care partners, and others gain insight and strengthen their adaptive skills from podcasts that help the broader community understand what it means to live with dementia and how they can support people.” There are special series for spirituality, arts, women, early onset dementia and new podcasts being added all the time. French & English. Episodes 51 and 53 of Season 4 feature feature lively and insightful conversations with Action Group member, Granville Johnson and Building Capacity Project’s Co-Lead, Dr. Alison Phinney. Website here Season 4 #51 & 53 here CALL TO MIND PODCAST University of Victoria, BC Prof. Debra Sheets “In this four-part podcast series, people living with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia record audio diaries and conversations about their lives during the pandemic…Intimate and surprising stories about the challenges and rewards of caregiving, the impacts of isolation, finding joy by living in the present, and staying in love when everything else is changing...inspires you to make your community a more friendly and supportive place for people with dementia.” ​ Podcasts here BUILDING CAPACITY PRO JECT: TAKEAWAYS UBC Nursing The Building Capacity Project Team led a discussion with Westside Seniors Hub Partners on May 25th about "engaging people living with dementia...to participate in community life as full social citizens...using the Action Group's Flipping Stigma Toolkit as an entry point...The online toolkit...gave Partners a chance to think through what stigma looks and feels like." The discussion included: Questions, Insights from Action Group members, Implementing the Toolkit, Engagement, and Resources 4-page Takeaways here STORIES FOR CAREGIVERS A series of 2-minute videos “‘Therapeutic Fibbing’ is a 4-part heart-opening dramatic comedy web series featuring an everyday Canadian family utilizing — with varying levels of success -- a form of compassionate lying to navigate communications with a loved one living with dementia. ” ​ YouTube here Facebook here BUILDING CAPACITY PROJECT WEBSITE University of British Columbia Nursing & Lakehead University “The Building Capacity Project aims to enable people living with dementia to participate in community life as full social citizens. The project develops and evaluates effective ways to create sustainable opportunities for people living with dementia and family/friend caregivers, to remain active and connected in their communities…support community initiatives.” Webinars, newsletter, reports, etc. Website here ​ CA REGIVERS OUT LOUD:A PODCAST SERIES Family Caregivers of BC Listen to “insightful, authentic and heart-centered conversations with caregivers that highlight the joys, trials, and self-discoveries that come along with this rewarding and taxing position.” 20-30 minute episodes accompanied by notes. ​ New addition Feb 2022: Creativity as a Form of Self- Care Listen here PROMOTING ENGAGEMENT OF PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA & FAMILY/FRIEND CAREGIVERS IN ADVANCE CARE PLANNING THROUGH COMMUNITY-LED PROGRAMS BC Centre for Palliative Care Research-based “learnings from, and resources developed...to promote the engagement of people living with dementia and family/friend caregivers in Advance Care Planning (ACP)…builds on the proven success of an existing, sustainable, community-led education model… to support community organizations facilitate ACP programs for the public. Report here FAMILY DYNAMICS AND HOLIDAYS Family Caregivers of BC Half-hour videos by Wendy Johnstone, Provincial Caregiving Consultant and Gerontologist, available free via Facebook that provide emotional support for those living with dementia and those caring for them. The December 2022 theme was Family Dynamics and the Holidays, but past episodes, webinars, and much more are available to explore here. COMMUNITY COUNSELING SERVICES IN BC Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions, Community Action Initiative “An extension of government funding to 49 local community counselling agencies provides access to low- and no-cost counselling services. Community counselling provides flexibility for counsellors to meet clients through outreach, in-person counselling or through virtual supports . In some community agencies, counsellors connect people to other services and supports.” ​ Availability of counselling services within BC’s Health Authorities here Return to top DV News

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NEWSLETTER HubBytes is t he Westside Seniors Hub's newsletter. It profiles key initiatives of the Hub's Partner Organizations and flags current issues, events and innovations that may be of interest to seniors. After a pandemic-induced hiatus of two years, we aim to publish HubBytes quarterly starting with Winter 2021-2022 . To view copies of HubBytes newsletters or subscribe, please click here

COLLABORATION VALUES SENIORS LED T he Hub is seniors'-led in order to best address the needs of seniors. It promotes a healthy aging process, recognizing that multiple generations and cohorts need different activities and supports. Seniors provide guidance on increasing the accessibility of seniors' programs and addressing the diversity of interests among seniors. COMMUNITY FOCUSED The overarching intention of the collaboration among Partner Organizations is to maximize benefits for the community and to leverage resources effectively, for example by seeking opportunities for funding support and innovative collaboration. The Hub relies on community engagement to address the needs and interests of diverse facets of the community. DIGNITY AND RESPECT The Hub operates on values of respect where everyone is treated with care and compassion. We aim to foster independence, self-esteem, dignity and empowerment for seniors and their families. BELONGING The Hub strives to create a sense of belonging and inclusion and provide opportunities to be connected and engaged in the community. OPENNESS The Hub Partner Organizations operate in a spirit of respect for each other and are clear and open about their intentions. They bring forward any issues that arise during the course of Hub work so that they can be addressed by the group. BECOME A PARTNER If you are a public, non-profit, or faith-based organization that serves seniors on Vancouver’s Westside, we would like to collaborate with you! ​ WHAT VALUES DOES THE WESTSIDE SENIORS HUB OFFER? ​ Help seniors know what programs and services Westside organizations offer to keep them socially engaged, active and well-served Enable the sharing of information and resources among Hub Partner Organizations and other community entities Better meet the needs of Westside seniors by sharing knowledge between seniors and Hub Partner Organizations Increase community awareness of seniors' issues and strengthen advocacy on behalf of seniors ​ HOW CAN PARTNERING IN THE WESTSIDE SENIORS HUB BENEFIT MY ORGANIZATION? ​ Enhance community awareness of your seniors’ programs and increase participation Learn from experiences and insights of other seniors' service providers Share ideas and solutions to improve seniors’ programs and services Amplify the voice of Westside seniors' service providers through the collective power of working together WHAT ARE THE ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF A HUB PARTNER ORGANIZATION? ​ Actively support the goals and operation of the Westside Seniors Hub by attending quarterly meetings, sitting on committees where possible, and providing advice and expertise to Council and Committees when requested Submit program and event information for profiling in Hub communications (website, HubBytes newsletter) Share ideas, successes, and challenges at quarterly Partner meetings Share information from Partner meetings within your organization Promote the network of Partner Organizations and make referrals where appropriate Partners meet quarterly and communicate via email between meetings. Partners are encouraged to join committees relevant to their work and offer space, resources and guidance to help the Council and volunteers in their efforts. Contact us to become a partner Hub brochure here PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS A growing network of Partner Organizations that serve seniors on the Westside have an interest in collaborating to support seniors in their community. They meet quarterly to share information about resources and assets, identify emerging issues, and collaborate on building a range of integrated services for seniors. They work with the Hub Council, serve on committees to act on identified issues, and represent the Hub to the public and various constituencies. Become a partner Current Partners Collaboration values

HUB COMMITTEES Hub Projects are taken on by Hub Committees, issue-based, action-oriented groups made up of representatives from the Council, Partner Organizations, and the community. They meet as needed to focus attention on particular issues or activities by sharing information, suggesting to the Council what approaches might work, and planning events. They act on behalf of seniors to bring attention to issues and gaps in services. Their work engages businesses, government agencies, non-profit agencies, and the public in moving towards a community where seniors can have their needs met and age well. ​ At this time, Hub Committee members are all collaborating as a Working Group on the multifaceted Building Capacity Dementia Ventures p roject so for action consider Getting Involved! ACCESS & MOBILITY COMMITTEE ​ Identifies seniors’ concerns and needs regarding access and mobility ​ Develops strategies to address those concerns ​ Engages Partner Organizations in coordinated action to keep seniors active and safe within their neighbourhoods ​ WHAT HAVE WE DONE? ​ We recently completed Walk and Be Seen – Neighbourhood Projects 2017 – 2018. This was a pedestrian visibility project that encourages seniors to walk and be more visible during low-light hours. It reached >600 participants with education and visibility gear wiith funding from the federal New Horizons for Seniors Program. The final report is here . ​ To stay informed about current issues, we send a representative to connect with the City of Vancouver Seniors Advisory Committee and to Seniors' Transportation is a Right meetings. ​ HEALTH & WELLNESS COMMITTEE ​ ​ Identifies key physical, social, and mental health issues of Westside Seniors ​ Prioritizes needs and find ways to address them through collaboration with Westside Seniors Hub Council, Hub Partners, other seniors serving organizations, and the community ​ Promotes awareness of seniors’ needs and advocate for change ​ WHAT HAVE WE DONE? ​ Through a partnership with the Alzheimer Society of BC, the Committee has offered two series of workshops to train more than 100 participants in how to create a more dementia-friendly community. Community members, volunteers & staff of the Hub's Westside Partners participated in the workshops. ​ In 2019, we initiated a collaboration with UBC and Lakehead University for active grassroots participation in the 4-year federally PHAC-funded umbrella project for Dementia Ventures . COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE ​ Provides resources for people who want to learn more about seniors’ serving organizations and their services on Vancouver’s Westside. ​ Creates online and print materials that are accessible to seniors, care partners, and the general public ​ Recruits volunteers withskills in website development & maintenance, photography, messaging, and publishing. WHAT HAVE WE DONE? ​ With a New Horizons for Seniors Program grant, we consulted with seniors for input on the Hub design of a logo, website, and print materials and conducted quality testing. We developed a Communications Plan for rolling out and maintaining the website. ​ The website is now being updated to showcase Dementia Ventures and the projects that Partners are initiating. Our communications invite more Partners, Council members and volunteers to join the Hub for collective action on issues affecting seniors! ​

DEMENTIA VENTURES UNDERSTANDING & LIVING WITH DEMENTIA In addition to many books written from different perspectives at your public library , here is online information Education & Links to Support Groups Research Engaging Activity Programs Media Education & Links EDUCATION & LINKS TO SUPPORT GROUPS ALZHEIMER SOCIETY OF CANADA IN BRITISH COLUMBIA Full range of resources and services for people living with Alzheimer Disease or related dementias, their care partners and families, some available in several languages. ​ Learn More DEMENTIA CONNECTIONS Dementia Connections Canada Ltd. “Dementia Connections is the only life-style magazine in Canada focused on supporting people living with dementia, care partners and families to live a good life, despite dementia… gain a deeper understanding of the lived experience of dementia.” ​ Learn More SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY "STAR" INSTITUTE STAR Science & Technology for Aging Research “In response to COVID-19 and in a time where self isolation is imperative STAR has curated a comprehensive set of resources and solutions …constantly updated.” Keeping Healthy, Community Support, Cognitive Health & Dementia, Technology Basics, Living Independently, Mobility & Transportation, etc. ​ Learn More GAIA COMMUNITY CARE & WELLNESS SOCIETY BC-based “charitable organization aims to support the health and wellness of Chinese and other older adults and their families….provides seniors and those caring for them with the knowledge, skills, and nurturing support they need to ease the stresses of aging.” Workshops, Webinars, Wellness Services (Qigong, Chair Yoga & Brain Games), Caregiver Wellspring etc. ​ Learn More HEALTH CARE DECISION-MAKING: LEGAL RIGHTS OF PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA Canadian Centre for Elder Law, Alzheimer Society of BC ​ A set of resources on the decision-making rights of people living with dementia: three short animated videos, and a booklet. The booklet is available in English, French, Traditional Chinese and Punjabi.” ​ Learn More DEMENTIA IN THE DAYS OF COVID-19: JIM'S STORY Alzheimer Society of BC “Jim Mann, a member of the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s Leadership Group of People Living with Dementia, shines a light on the lesser-known impact of COVID-19 on people living with dementia.” ​ Learn More DEMENTIA ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL The ‘global voice’ for dementia with many resources and services for people living with dementia and care partners ​ “Online support groups and other activities for our members, free of charge in number of different time zones” Diverse resources for people experiencing dementia, care partners, professionals ​ Learn more here CULTURAL AWARENESS IN DEMENTIA CARE: LIVED EXPERIENCES UWLM CORE Healthy Aging 105 min. ​ Four panelists: Nadine Jans, clinical counselor . Ways to significantly improve behaviours, moods, and relationships for connection and meaning in the lives of people living with dementia and their care partners. ​ Dr. Sharon Koehn, social gerontologist . Experiences of dementia and access to services by older immigrants focusing on Korean and Punjabi communities. ​ Alice Lung, retired LPN . Care partner for husband with Early Onset Dementia. Cultural understanding about aging and dementia among Chinese immigrants.. ​ Elder Kat Norris, First Nations cultural educator . Awareness of proper diagnosis and care of indigenous persons living with dementia aligned with cultural understandings and traditions. Recording here Return to Top Engaging activity programs Return to Top ENGAGING ACTIVITY PROGRAMS SMILE BRAIN PROGRAM - WEST COAST HEALTHY MEMORY SOCIETY “Smile Brain Program is 12 weeks, 90 minute program based for seniors to continue and increase their memory, self-confidence, and social connection with others….similar to a program in Japan.” ​ Learn More ZINNIA TV “Improving quality of life for people living with dementia and their care partners… Zinnia’s content channels feature familiar faces, subjects, and sounds to help people feel engaged and connected... beautiful, immersive videos on familiar and well-loved topics are crafted to be meaningful.” Nature, Places, Nostalgia, Interests, Conversation Starters, Care Messages, Activities. ​ Learn More IN THERE OUT HERE: ART MAKING SPACE TO LIVE WELL WITH DEMENTIA UBC multidisciplinary & colleagues abroad "Showcases collaborative art made by a warm, inter-connected and supported community. Comprising people living with dementia and their care partners, academic researchers, and art workshop facilitators alike, this community has joined together, engaging with multi-media art projects, and cultivating insightful discussions." Artwork, film, gallery, survey, & much more. ​ Learn More MOMENTIA VIRTUAL PROGRAMS “Seattle-based grassroots movement empowering persons with memory loss and their loved ones to remain connected and active in the community ...variety of dementia-friendly opportunities.” Links to mostly free virtual programs in the time of COVID-19 - Art, Poetry & Museums; Virtual Music & Dance; Exercise & Workouts; Videos of Zoos, Parks, Travel & More ​ Learn More CAFÉ CONNECT: VIRTUAL MEMORY CAFÉ DIRECTORY "Find information about Virtual Memory Cafes that you can access with a computer or by phone...from the comfort and safety of your own home." English, Spanish, Portuguese offered. ​ Learn More VOICES IN MOTION CHOIRS VICTORIA, BC "In addition to a joy-filled choral experience, all participants in a Voices in Motion choir benefit from belonging to a supportive community where they experience love, connection and support. These life-giving moments of music foster increased socialization, cognitive function, meaningfulness, and a multigenerational appreciation of others." Opportunities to join online. ​ Learn More Research RESEARCH Return to Top RESEARCH-BASED EDUCATION & SUPPORT NATIONAL COLLABORATING CENTRE FOR INDIGENOUS HEALTH “Cultural safety and Indigenous-specific anti-racism tools and resources…to support First Nations, Inuit, and Métis public health renewal and health equity through … evidence-based resources, multi-media products, and knowledge translation services…hosted by the University of Northern BC.” Learn more INDIGENOUS COGNITION & AGING AWARENESS RESEARCH EXCHANGE (I-CAARE) “Goal is to enhance knowledge of how Indigenous peoples understand and experience dementia and the impact of dementia on Indigenous peoples and communities.” Culturally Safe Care and Factsheets , Cultural Understandings , Practice Tools , Technology for Aging , International Strategies for Diagnosis ​ Learn More P.I.E.C.E.S. ™ LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT MODEL “P.I.E.C.E.S.™ is a holistic, person and care partner-directed model which enhances capacity at the individual, TEAM, organization and system levels to support the care of the older individual.” ​ P.I.E.C.E.S.™ Cornerstones + P.I.E.C.E.S.™ Enablers = Enhanced Person & Care Partner Engagement AND Enhanced Organizational & System Capacity ​ Learn More WHAT TYPE OF TREATMENTS REDUCE DEPRESSION SYMPTOMS IN PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA? A SYSTEMIC REVIEW McMaster Optimal Aging Portal, BMJ 2021 “In people with dementia and symptoms of depression, some nondrug interventions reduce depression symptoms more than usual care. Nondrug interventions were as good as, or better than, drugs…brief descriptions of nondrug interventions.” ​ Learn More FUTURE LEARN FREE COURSES FROM ACADEMIC INSTITUTIONS Foundations in Dementia (University of Nottingham) “Discover better ways to support people with dementia. Explore signs and symptoms, interventions, support networks and more.” The Many Faces of Dementia (University College London) “Gain a unique insight into dementia through the stories, symptoms and science behind four less common diagnoses.” Dementia and the Arts: Sharing Practice, Developing Understanding and Enhancing Lives (University College London) “Explore, challenge and shape your perceptions of dementia through science and the creative arts.” ​ Learn More Media Return to Top MEDIA ONLINE WEBINARS, TED TALKS, YOUTUBE VIDEOS DEMENTIA DIALOGUE PODCASTS AND RESOURCES Centre for Education and Research on Aging and Health (CERAH), Lakehead University “Listeners who have dementia, care partners, and others gain insight and strengthen their adaptive skills help the broader community understand what it means to live with dementia and how they can support people.” Also special series for spirituality, arts, women, early onset dementia and new podcasts being added. French & English. Website here ALZHEIMER SOCIETY OF BC SERIES ON UNDERSTANDING DEMENTIA In 2018-2019, the Alzheimer Society British Columbia hosted a series of webinars: Understanding Dementia; Understanding Communication (2-part); Behaviour (2-part). Search for understanding dementia. ​ Learn More HEALTHY AGING CORE COLLABORATIVE ONLINE RESOURCES & EDUCATION Free signup for CORE access, then search for videos, webinars, documents with search term 'dementia'. Examples: Gitxsan Way of Knowing About Dementia ; Caregiving during COVID-19 ; Korean Navigating to Care ; Legal Rights; Alzheimer Society of BC Webinar Training Series (5 parts) ​ Learn More 20 YOUTUBE DEMENTIA CHANNELS TO FOLLOW IN 2020 FEEDSPOT “Feedspot has a team of over 25 experts whose goal is to discover and rank popular blogs, podcasts and youtube channels in several niche categories... List is updated as we receive new blog submissions and re-ranked every few weeks. We also take direct feedback from users to make changes to the lists.” ​ Learn More CAREBLAZERS A geropsychologist, Dr. Natali Edmonds, invites you to watch free videos weekly and offers a subscription to a collection of Mini-booster videos designed to reduce caregiver stress. “My goal was to reach as many Careblazers as possible and let them know they aren’t alone and there is help...help families get trustworthy and helpful information about common dementia struggles.” Free Caregiver Survival Guide. ​ Learn More TED TALKS SEARCH FOR "BRAIN" Examples: Anne Basting How to Meaningfully Reconnect with Those Who Have Dementia ; Lisa Genova What You Can Do to Prevent Alzheimer’s and more. ​ Learn More Back to Resources - Dementia Ventures

Top of Reports & Data DEMENTIA VENTURES REPORTS AND DATA ALZHEIMER ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2022 “The AAIC 2022 covered the breadth of Alzheimer’s and dementia research, including the basic biology of aging and the brain, risk factors and prevention strategies, and caregiving and living well with the disease… presentation and discussion of the latest Alzheimer’s and dementia research.” News release and abstracts here BUILDING CAPACITY FOR MEANINGFUL PARTICIPATION BY PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA (UBC-Lakehead Universities, WSH, NWDWG 2020) “Project aims to enhance and promote opportunities for people living with dementia, including dedicated and inclusive physical and social activities that account for the interests and needs of people living with dementia…fosters connections in community and the growth of initiatives based on community capacity and interest.” Information here CANADIAN CHARTER OF RIGHTS FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA (Alzheimer Society of Canada 2019) “The Charter defines seven explicit rights to empower you to self-advocate as a person living with dementia in Canada…ensures that the people and organizations that support you will know and protect your rights.” Right #4: “To access support so that I can live as independently as possible and be as engaged as possible in my community.” Information here THE HUMAN RIGHTS OF PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA: FROM RHETORIC TO REALTY (Dementia Alliance International 2016) “A basic introduction to Human-Rights Based Approaches (HBRAs) – a UN approved system, which has been applied across all sectors… focuses on ways in which the Convention for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) can be used to promote the well-being and quality of life of people living with dementia.” Information here A DEMENTIA STRATEGY FOR CANADA: TOGETHER WE ASPIRE (Public Health Agency of Canada 2019) “It is possible to live well and achieve quality of life at all stages of dementia through compassionate diagnosis, connection to support systems, increased awareness of dementia among all Canadians and reduced financial hardship for those living with dementia and their caregivers.” Information here Return to top DEVELOPING CULTURALLY GROUNDED DEMENTIA EDUCATION MATERIALS FOR INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY-BASED CARE (Jacklin & Blind 2018) "ICARE investigators and research staff worked closely with our community advisory members and Tribal Leadership to develop" a suite of tools: Dementia in Indigenous Populations ; Underlying Frameworks: Cultural Safety & Two-Eyed Seeing ; Indigenous Understandings of Memory Loss & Aging ; Fact Sheets ; Dementia Care for Indigenous People and their Families. Information here ADDRESSING STIGMA: TOWARDS A MORE INCLUSIVE HEALTH SYSTEM (Chief Public Health Officer of Canada, 2019) “Stigma is associated with poorer physical and mental health outcomes …and cannot be understood or treated separately from stigma related to other characteristics such as race, gender, sexual orientation, age, and income…We can stop using dehumanizing language, examine our own assumptions, and implement policies and education programs, while also measuring our progress towards stigma elimination.” Information here RISK REDUCTION OF COGNITIVE DECLINE AND DEMENTIA (WHO 2019) “Guidelines for risk reduction…provide evidence-based recommendations on lifestyle behaviours and interventions to delay or prevent cognitive decline and dementia.” Information here WORLD ALZHEIMER REPORT 2019: ATTITUDES TO DEMENTIA (Alzheimer’s Disease International, ADI) ADI’s 2019 global survey of attitudes to dementia and recommendations “to take action, to improve awareness, to help dispel lingering myths around dementia and ultimately aim to reduce or even eradicate stigma.” Information here VIRTUAL CARE FOR PATIENTS WITH ALZHEIMER DISEASE AND RELATED DEMENTIAS DURING THE COVID-19 ERA AND BEYOND (Canadian Medical Association Journal, March 15, 2021) Virtual visits have unique challenges but can potentially improve access to health care for those experiencing dementia. Evidence demonstrates that videoteleconferencing can be useful in assessment, planning, and management of a diagnosis. There is much research underway to overcome barriers and adapt modalities for direct-to-home care. Information here Back to Resources - Dementia Ventures

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PROGRAM LEADERS YOU can help create a sense of belonging for people with dementia deliver diverse experiences facilitate expression of feelings stimulate the senses and emotions It is so important to remain socially, mentally and physically active when experiencing cognitive decline. Program leaders are essential partners in offering meaningful activities that are fun and inclusive, so community members living with dementia and their care partners look forward to participating. This website's Resources will help you understand how to engage and adapt your leadership skills so your language and approaches resonate and encourage everyone to remain active and involved in your programs. ​ Hub Partners would like to hear from you! Visit the Current Hub Partner Projects page to see which project is most attractive and contact the Partner sponsoring it

Westside Seniors Hub Our Organization Dementia Ventures...Building Capacity Get Involved Fireweed symbolizes the resilience that Dementia Ventures envisions bringing to people living with dementia and their care partners. This feisty wildflower thrives in challenging conditions and brings vibrant colour to diverse landscapes year after year.We are grateful that Yukon photographer Ivan Sundby has donated this High Weed image to Dementia Ventures. Like so many, Ivan’s family has been affected by dementia. Fireweed - Why this feisty wildflower? Dementia Ventures…Building Capacity ​ Dementia Ventures is creating community opportunities for people living with dementia to remain active and engaged. Hub goals for people living with dementia: create a more inclusive community and increase social citizenship . Living with dementia must include pursuing one’s passions! Communities that provide diverse opportunities demonstrate that people can remain vibrant contributors to community life well beyond a dementia diagnosis. Dementia Ventures is building capacity for the inclusion of people with dementia in meaningful activities! Westside Seniors Hub Partner Organizations are adapting current programs and creating new programs that are inclusive and motivate people living with dementia to socialize according to their interests. Want to get involved? If so, are you? experiencing cognitive difficulties / care partner / program leader / professional /motivated volunteer ​ You can assist Hub Partner Organizations develop appealing and sustainable arts , social , fitness and volunteer activities. Hub Partners want people living with dementia and their care partners to express their needs and desires. Partners also need program leaders, motivated volunteers, and professionals working with seniors to assist. Please Get Involved ! ​ The bigger picture…Collective action by elders and their care partners ​ From 2019-2022, the Westside Seniors Hub is focusing on Dementia Ventures in collaboration with the University of British Columbia and Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, Ontario. ​ The umbrella project for both sites is Building Capacity for Meaningful Participation by People Living with Dementia funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada. Get Involved Current Hub Partner Projects

Events - Return to top SOUND BYTES SERIES Return to top Hub Community Action That Builds Capacity The Dementia Ventures project empowers Hub Partners to build out inclusive community programming for all and adapt to include people living with dementia. They and their care partners want to remain socially engaged in meaningful activities. A collaboration with UBC’s Dr. Alison Phinney and her Building Capacity team offers financial, strategic and logistical resources so programs can welcome and support those with dementia and their care partners. We celebrated midway in this initiative with a series of vibrant online community dialogues. The theme was: “What it means to be an accepting and inclusive community.” SoundBytes wants to share wisdom from those dialogues. Here are our first nuggets. There will be many more! BC-based artist and advocate Granville Johnson spoke out about fear and the power of our perspective on Dementia Dialogue's most recent podcast episode, addressing the ways we can choose to gain some sense of control and joy back into our lives even in the face of new challenges. Watch Full Event HERE PERSPECTIVE IS EVERYTHING In the most recent podcast episode of Dementia Dialogue, Dr. Alison Phinney discusses the stigma attached to dementia diagnoses and how that impacts community support efforts. She speaks with host Lisa Loiselle and fellow podcast guest Granville Johnson, who lives with dementia himself, about the important balance to be struck between training and education on one hand, and engaging with people with lived experience on the other. The Biggest Challenge to Community Support for People Living with Dementia Watch Full Event HERE WHAT HOLDS US BACK Karen Rolston’s mother Louise started getting inklings something was a little “off” back in 2011. At the time, the Rolstons were already in the process of creating a laneway house on their property for her, so they could live close together. The timing worked out well. Louise lived there for seven years beside her daughter Karen, Karen’s husband, and their daughter. Those years were, “a beautiful opportunity for us to just wrap mom with more support and care while she was able to live in her own space,” Karen said. ​ When Karen thinks about the journey she has been on with her mom, and the reactions from people when it comes to dementia, the word that comes to mind is fear. “People find out someone has dementia, and they think, ‘Am I going to receive this diagnosis too?’ ‘Is someone I love going to get dementia?’” Rolston said. Fear seeps in and too often, people pull away. ​ “People often don’t know what to say or do, so they turn away from those with dementia instead of turning toward them with love,” Rolston said. Rolston is extremely grateful for community supports. Her mom really enjoyed the Alzheimer Society’s Minds in Motion program, the Alzheimer’s Café and the Helena choir she joined. “These community groups are where we felt really held,” she said. “It’s such a painful journey and there is still so much we can do.” ​ In this Soundbyte, Rolston offers her thoughts on how to really tune into a person’s needs and meet them where they are, rather than seeing their responses as resistance or defiance. Loving and showing up for someone with dementia is about cherishing the now, embracing their world, and accepting what is. ​ TURNING TOWARDS THE PERSON WITH DEMENTIA A care partners perspective on what helps. Watch Full Event HERE Esteemed Globe and Mail Columnist André Picard wrote Neglected No More: The Urgent Need to Improve the Lives of Canada’s Elders in the Wake of a Pandemic in 2021, a book that discusses what needs to change to shift the culture of long-term care across our country. “Picard reveals the full extent of the crisis in eldercare and offers an urgently needed prescription to fix a broken system and ensure long-term care homes are not warehouses of isolation and neglect” Penguin Random House states on their site. Care home COVID outbreaks seemed to be exploding in every region of the country at the time, drawing attention to the deplorable working conditions they had for employees, the resulting neglect residents experienced, and the total lack of support for the institutions in general. In this storyboard, Picard says media needs to highlight not just worst-case scenarios meant to shock and awe, but stories about people living quite well for a long time with dementia. Seeing more people with dementia in our day-to-day activities—including in the news— would normalize that experience as a way of reducing stigma. Lastly, he emphasized the importance of having people with dementia sit on boards and committees on which they get a real vote in the outcomes of important decisions. ANDRÉ PICARD ON THE MEDIA'S ROLE IN STAMPING OUT STIGMA Watch Full Event HERE Rob Dramer and Lilllian Ireland are self-identified elders who work with the Suzuki foundation mentoring and supporting other elders and younger generations in dialogue and action on environmental issues. They're also traveling performers who offer a multi-sensory show featuring songs they've written about biodiversity, interspersed with some familiar tunes to help audiences tap into earlier memories. Music elicits powerful connections, and they invite audience members to join in the fun alongside them and their collection of beautiful local animal puppets. On the value of art in supporting the dementia journey... Watch Full Event HERE SUZUKI ELDERS Myrna Norman is an author, artist, and dementia advocate based in Maple Ridge. In 2009, when Norman was diagnosed with Frontal Temporal Dementia and given eight years to live, she went home ready to die. But after grieving this news for a couple of weeks, Norman decided to do what she’s best at: advocating for change. She became heavily involved in initiatives that let others in her situation know they weren’t alone. Thirteen years later, Norman’s passion, generosity of spirit, and charisma have touched so many lives. Her book, “Dementia Strategies, Tips and Personal Stories,” has become an indispensable voice of validation and support. ​ Norman has participated in multi-year research studies, art-making groups and task forces including The Dementia Sisterhood, the Dementia Action Committee, Dementia Advocacy Canada, the Dementia Friendly Task Force, and now the Building Capacity Project to name just a few. She’s also collaborating with researchers and designers at Emily Carr University’s Health Design Lab to develop a series of workbooks geared at supporting researchers to engage in collaborative work with people with lived experience. And to all these roles, she brings her signature energy, compassion, and love for showing people their strength. On the value of art in supporting the dementia journey... Watch Full Event HERE POETRY A dedicated group of congregation members at Pacific Spirit United Church worked together over the course of a year to create an incredible and insightful four-part series on dementia that you can access online.​ ​ They had noticed church members struggling with cognitive decline and family members worried about finding extra care, so they dove in to offer support. Their commitment to fostering a dementia friendly culture at their church has since inspired many other groups to take action too. ​ For more details go to www.pacificspiritc.com and click on "ministries". The series is under "Beacon *shinning light on dementia." ​ BEACON *Shining Light on Dementia An Initiative to build an inclusive congregation at Pacific Spirit United Church. Summary HERE Watch Full Event HERE The Flipping Stigma Toolkit is a project where a group of people diagnosed with dementia partnered with a research team to develop an online toolkit. ​ This Action Group, funded by a research grant from the Canadian Institute of Health and Research, co-designed the toolkit to help people with dementia recognize and respond to stigma and discrimination -and to help others better understand ho to be supportive-. ​ The Goa? Flip that fear on its ear. ​ To learn more visit www.flippingstigma.com LET´S TALK ABOUT DEMENTIA THE FLIPPING STIGMA TOOLKIT An Action Group of people living with dementia came together and developed a toolkit to start a conversation about stigma and discrimination in dementia. Watch Full Event HERE Granville Johnson is an artist and teacher whose advocacy work is always led by his passion for lifting people up. In this piece, he talks about the ways his art and his lived experience inform each other. ​ He sees dementia as an opportunity for insight. “Dementia gives you a chance to express your inner self, the good, the bad and the ugly. And in that expression, there are opportunities to grow.” ​ He focuses on what he can do, rather than what he can’t. He believes the more society can get behind the idea of championing strengths rather than focusing on deficits, the stronger our community will become. Johnson lives in a remote part of Northern British Columbia and thrives in its natural beauty. ​ NEW PERSPECTIVES Shifting the conversation on dementia involves recognizing its gifts. Watch Full Event HERE Researchers and designers at Emily Carr University’s Health Design Lab use participatory design methods to catalyze, support and amplify initiatives addressing complex health challenges like dementia. “We use design methods to help engage people with dementia in initiatives that directly impact their lives,” said Lab Director Caylee Raber. The team’s current project is called Collaborate, Gather, Share—a workbook series co-designed by people with lived experience to help drive reflection around how they can be brought into research projects and how best to support those collaborations, recognizing people with dementia as experts. ​ Their recent video, “Perspectives,” paired design students with long-term care residents. They co-designed and co-wrote mini publications featuring residents’ stories. Students developed creative games and activities to help draw out residents’ stories that they then captured in zines and mini-books, some even embroidered on quilts. ​ Lastly, the team worked with Vancouver Coastal Health for four years on a project focused on shifting the culture of care in long-term facilities. All the Lab’s work focuses on how researchers and designers can use their skills and expertise to build upon work already being done—facilitating creative expression and self advocacy for people with dementia and getting those messages out to the world. ​ EMILY CARR UNIVERSITY´S HEALTH DESIGN LAB Emily Carr University's Health Design Lab employs participatory methods to lift up the perspectives of people with lived experience. Watch Full Event HERE Author, artist, and dementia advocate Myrna Norman runs a peer support group for others with dementia in her lower mainland community called the Purple Angels Memory Café. The group meets four times a month, and sometimes outdoors in summer when the weather is beautiful. Every second week, it’s the Army and Navy Club for a beer and live music. Members take turns bringing refreshments and treats and have fundraised up to $300 to put towards games and activities they can play together. The group is a wonderful way to connect with others, share similar experiences, and gain support and a powerful sense of belonging. The best part? Membership is free. “The gift [members] give to me is so much more than could ever be paid,” said Norman. ​ One new member who joined a couple of weeks ago turned to Myrna as he was leaving the Army and Navy Club and said, “Myrna, I feel different now. The music touched something inside of me.” ​ “I still get the shivers thinking about it,” Norman said of the comment. It’s revelations like this one that drew her to this work. ​ For more information or to check out the Purple Angels sometime, email Myrna Norman at: the.normans@shaw.ca REPRESENTATION MATTERS The power of seeing our experiences in the stories of others. Watch Full Event HERE Reverend Deborah Liang has been a minister in the United Church of Canada for 37 years, the last four at Pacific Spirit Kerrisdale. She's seen how good communities gather around people in both their joys and troubles, contributing immensely to their quality of life. She also served as chaplain at a rural hospital and learned so much from nurses and program staff there about support, respect and care for people with dementia. Shared values and perspectives. Watch Full Event HERE THE POWER OF SUPPORT FROM OUR FAITH & CULTURE GROUPS One Vancouver man who has been advocating for the treatment and care of people with dementia ever since his dementia diagnosis over a decade ago, discusses how dementia is viewed through various cultural lenses. He explains how those lenses affect families' and individual's responses to diagnosis and decisions around treatment. Watch Full Event HERE RESPONDING TO DEMENTIA THROUGH A CROSS-CULTURAL LENS BC artist and dementia advocate Granville Johnson talks about the importance of trusting one's sense of self above all else when living with dementia. "The world might not know we're capable, but we can know it and live it and continue to pursue our dreams." Johnson lives in remote part of British Columbia where he's currently working on a novel. Watch Full Event HERE TRUSTING OUR SENSE OF SELF ABOVE ALL ELSE When Lester was first diagnosed with dementia, he and his wife and care partner Cindy found that some of their friends and family reacted with disbelief. Others weren't sure how to talk to him. Sharing the Flipping Stigma toolkit with their church and social communities gave the couple a chance to contextualize dementia for those who didn't know much about it. The toolkit allayed fears, provided reassurance, and ultimately resulted in Lester AND Cindy feeling they could open up more about his diagnosis, feel less shame, and share more of their journey with the people they cared about. The toolkit helped them feel much more deeply understood. Watch Full Event HERE ON BRAVERY AND THE POWER OF SHARING OUR STORY Bill Heibein continues to live on the farm he shared with his late wife Heather just outside Kakabeka Falls, Ontario. When he was diagnosed with dementia in 2000, doctors told him he'd have about five more years to live "usefully". Twenty-two years later, he has proven them wrong. In addition to caring for his horses, Bill volunteers as an advocate with the Northwest Dementia Working Group, helps run Dementia Cafes in the community, and is passionate about encouraging others with lived experience to get involved, advocate for themselves, and find purpose. Bill says it's that deep sense of purpose that's fuelled his ability to thrive with dementia for so long, and he's confident others can do the same. Bill Heibein's Journey with Dementia Watch Full Event HERE HOW FOCUSING ON A PURPOSE BUILDS RESILIENCE When COVID-19 threatened to halt all their efforts in their tracks, Andrea Sara and her team found was to move online, gather virtually, solve problems, and dream big anyway. They worried for seniors who'd been hit particularly hard by increased isolation and wanted to ensure everyone in their community felt seen and supported. So, they went outside. They sought out "soothing spaces" where they could "feel safe socializing". That's how the Fireweed Club came to be. These days the DRA has its hand in so many wonderful initiatives, all which support inclusion, environmental awareness, and social engagement. A community works together to be more inclusive. Watch Full Event HERE MAPPING DEMENTIA-FRIENDLY CULTURE Dementia Educator and community advocate Helen Murphy has dedicated her career to making the North Shore and surrounding communities more dementia-friendly. She provides training for North Shore organizations, speaks to community groups, and volunteers in developing new programs and opportunities for people with dementia to live better lives in a community that is "wise, inclusive and socially integrated". Watch Full Event HERE ON THE VALUE OF INTERGENERATIONAL CONNECTION The Building Capacity Project team in Thunder Bay, Ontario partners with the Northwest Dementia Working Group on a number of fantastic community initiatives. The team is very grateful to the NWDWG members who have volunteered to help run some of their Dementia Cafes over the years, for instance, as these cafes are a great opportunity for people in the community to witness for themselves how important representation is, how much capacity there is among people with lived experience, and to be a apart of breaking down stigma. THE NEED FOR PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA IN ADVOCACY ROLES Lynn Jackson is an action group member with lived experience who played a key role in developing the Flipping Stigma Toolkit, a new online resource helping educate caregivers, people with lived experience, researchers, and the public at large about how to respond to stigma around dementia. Jackson talks about how important it is for care partners to empower people with dementia to stay engaged and active. Fostering autonomy while supporting someone with dementia works to maintain their sense of personhood. Treating them like they're sick makes them feel that way. Watch Full Event HERE CARE PARTNERS EMPOWERING PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA Dr. Elaine Wiersma of the Centre for Education and Research on Aging and Health at Lakehead University talks about the need to amplify a wider cross section of voices when it comes to the lived experience of people with dementia. If our exposure of these experiences stays too narrow, we run the risk of silencing important wisdoms, staying uninformed as to the broad range of experiences, and keeping devastating stigmas alive. AMPLIFYING DIVERSE VOICES: THE VALUE OF LIVED EXPERIENCE Art is a powerful vehicle for shifting perceptions and shaping culture. AND it's one way of letting your voice be heard when the words themselves might be too hard to say. Whether it's a poem, a collage, a painting, or a dance, the arts can be incredibly helpful and moving for people with dementia at all stages of their journey, and can help the public gain insight into their experience. ART AS A VEHICLE FOR CHANGE