I am a Care Partner

A care partner can refer to a spouse, family member, health or community professional supporting and caring for a person living with dementia.

Summary of what a Care Partner is:

A care partner can be any person helping support someone living with dementia. They are all in partnership with the person living with dementia.

 

Care partners who are well informed can help make life better for both themselves, and the person living with dementia. This site/platform uses the term care partner throughout.

Discover Care Partner
Care Partner

Education

A care partner can refer to a spouse, family member, health or community professional supporting and caring for a person living with dementia.
Seeds of Hope

Caregiver-Centered Care Initiative

2 Sessions to discover
Brain Health - Education Series

Act Today to Protect Tomorrow

8 Sessions to discover
My Tools 4 Care

My Tools 4 Care was developed to help you as a care partner as you care for a person living with dementia in the community.

5 Sessions to discover
Discover more Education
Care Partner

Live Events and Meetings

Stay updated with our latest videos and insights on dementia care.
Upcoming Live Meeting
Safeguarding Seniors: Recognizing & Preventing Financial Fraud
Safeguarding Seniors: Recognizing & Preventing Financial Fraud
Nov 20, 2024
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Learn More

Please Login or Join our Community to participate in this Live Meeting.

Upcoming Live Meeting
More meetings coming soon!
Looking to keep up-to-date when new events are added? Subscribe to our newsletter!

Subscribe Form

"*" indicates required fields

Name*

Discover more Past Live Meetings:
Past Live Meeting
Navigating Homecare and Alberta’s Updated Continuing Care Act
Navigating Homecare and Alberta’s Updated Continuing Care Act
Oct 16, 2024
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
A Comprehensive Look at the Relationship Between Alcohol and Prescription Medication Misuse and Dementia
Alcohol and prescription medication misuse increases the risk of dementia. Prioritize brain health by making informed choices! Join us in recognizing World Alzheimer's Day as we welcome Dr. Adrian Wagg to speak further on this important topic. Don't miss this opportunity to learn more about how your lifestyle choices can impact cognitive health.
Sep 18, 2024
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Exploring Nutrition Care: How Dietitians Can Support You on Your Journey Through Alzheimer's Disease Presented by Kristin Hruschak
Join us for an insightful webinar on the different roles nutrition can play in the Alzheimer's journey. In this session, we will explore the role of dietitians in providing compassionate care and expert guidance for individuals, as well as their devoted care partners. Discover the truth behind common nutrition myths and gain valuable insights into optimizing dietary choices to enhance overall well-being and quality of life. Learn how dietitians can be your trusted partners in enriching lives, empowering minds, and making a significant difference throughout your journey.
Dec 6, 2023
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Sexual Expressions - Learning New Ways to Cope Presented by Natalie Wilton
Caregivers often identify that one of the most challenging aspects of being a care partner is when the person that they are caring for experiences sexual expressions. Caregivers often feel a sense of embarrassment and find themselves at a loss with how to respond. Partners and spouses frequently experience feelings of grief and confusion as they navigate unexpected situations that arise related to intimacy and sexuality. This presentation will review tips and strategies for care partners to better understand sexual expressions and learn new ways to cope with the changing relationship.
Nov 15, 2023
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Practical Strategies for Understanding Sexual Expressions Presented by Natalie Wilton
This presentation will help clinicians who support clients and care partners with dementia who are experiencing sexually responsive behaviour. We will review tips on how to assess and better understand why sexual expressions happen and offer practical strategies that you can use to support both the care partner and persons living with dementia.
Nov 2, 2023
1:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Ask Us Anything Home Care Panel Presentation!
Please join us as we welcome home care representatives from all over the province! This will be an "Ask Us Anything" style presentation. Home care can be a tricky part of our healthcare system, so bring your questions and settle in for an excellent presentation filled with helpful information!
Oct 18, 2023
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Exploring Nutrition Care Along the Journey Through Alzheimer's Disease Presented by Kristen Hruschak
Join us for an insightful webinar as we delve into the critical role of nutrition care in navigating the journey through Alzheimer's disease. The webinar will include a brief lecture followed by a question-and-answer period. Gain valuable insights into optimizing dietary habits, addressing common challenges, and promoting overall well-being to support individuals and their loved ones on this unique path. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the power of nutrition in enhancing the quality of life throughout the journey through Alzheimer's disease. Have your nutrition questions ready!
Oct 12, 2023
1:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Alberta Health Advocates and how they can work for you! Presented by Ryan Bielby
Health advocates promote education and awareness of Alberta's Health Charter, listen to Albertans about their healthcare experiences and promote health literacy. Join us to celebrate World Alzheimer's Day and to learn how they can help you navigate our healthcare systems.
Sep 21, 2023
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Health Link Dementia Advice Line Program
This presentation will provide an overview of how the Health Link Dementia Advice line program was developed to meet the needs of Seniors living with Dementia in Alberta. The presentation will highlight exciting updates to the program service model, staff and what this means for Albertans and seniors in the community. We look forward to sharing these exciting developments for the Health Link Dementia Advice Line.
May 10, 2023
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Lewy Body Disease in Aging and Dementia
Review the concept of cognitive impairment in aging and Lewy body diseases. Discuss the cognitive spectrum of Lewy body disorders. Introduce interventions for motor and non-motor impairment in Lewy body diseases
Apr 6, 2023
1:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
The Music Advantage: Improve Mood, Memory and Motivation
This is a keynote FULL of Key Notes!There is no other activity we know of that activates more areas of the brain simultaneously than when we listen to music that inspires us. Quite simply, music brings meaning into moments, but on a more complex level, the different elements of music (tone, volume, tempo) impact brain function and human behaviour.For over thirty years working as a music therapist, and leading a private practice team of twenty therapists, Jennifer has witnessed this powerful resource in action in people as young as two months to 104 — transforming changes in mood, memory and motivation.This Keynote will include:• Stories from around the world of how music is bridging gaps, helping people feel less stuck, and igniting team creativity.• A synthesis of the latest research at the intersection of music and health, shared in a practical and fun way. For example: what does your music say about your personality? The answer may surprise you.• Top ‘key' tips for using music to accentuate the positive in your life - including the power of a purposeful playlist.
Mar 29, 2023
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Being prepared for the hospital - emergency to inpatient
Visits to the emergency room and admission to hospital can occur unexpectedly to anyone. For a person living with dementia, going to the hospital can be a very difficult and frightening experience. Older persons, especially those living with dementia, are at risk for delirium, decreased mobility and increased falls risk as well as new onset or worsening of continence problems with acute illness and hospitalization. University of Alberta nurse researchers Kathleen Hunter and Sherry Dahlke will discuss strategies to be prepared for an unexpected trip to the hospital, and ways in which family care partners can support and advocate for their family member in the emergency room, during a hospital stay and the transition home.
Mar 15, 2023
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Yoga for Aging Well
Yoga is one of civilization's oldest health systems that remains accessible to everyone at any age. Contrary to popular belief, extreme flexibility and extraordinary strength are not required to enjoy the benefits of yoga. Yoga practices have been shown to have positive effects on cellular aging, mobility, balance, emotional wellbeing, and cognitive health. They can also improve the quality of life in individuals living with dementia.In this seminar you will be introduced to yoga philosophy and basic techniques that you can use in your daily life to support healthy aging. This online seminar will be presented from a yoga studio. Please wear comfortable, non-restricting clothing to participate in a gentle yoga practice.
Feb 15, 2023
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Optimizing Supportive End-of-Life Care for Frail Older Adults Living with Dementia in Long-Term-Care
In this presentation, the objectives are, describe the challenges faced within long-term-care to providing supportive end-of-life care among frail residents within the last year or so of life. Present evidence-based approaches to providing supportive end-of-life care in the long-term-care setting. Discuss development and implementation of a frailty pathway within long-term care
Feb 2, 2023
1:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Rest Easy: Sleeping, remembering, and aging well
Sleep has remarkable impacts on all aspects of healthy living. Join Dr. Brandon Hauer, PhD as he explores the complex relationship between sleep, memory, and aging well. Learn what sleep looks like in your brain, how we measure it, what stage of sleep is best for boosting memory, and how sleep and memory change both across the lifespan and in Alzheimer's disease. Dr. Hauer will also share some tips on things you can start doing tonight to sleep better and, hopefully: rest easy.
Jan 18, 2023
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
"Ask Us Anything!" Presentation with Stephanie Dziedzic and Jeannine Chemello
Have you been recently diagnosed, supporting a family member or friend who has been diagnosed, or are just generally interested to learn more about dementia? Then this is the live event for you! Dementia can have so many unanswered questions and it's hard to know where to start some days. Join us as we welcome two professionals in the field for a meeting that is just that, ask them anything and learn more about dementia today!
Dec 14, 2022
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Indigenous Ways of Knowing about Dementia - Some lessons from the Gitxsan Perspective
In 2017, direct care nurses within the Gitxsan Health Society identified that increased understanding about dementia was needed by both health authority and band employed nurses to better support the individuals with the disease and the community caring for the people with the disease. Through 2018-19 a multi-partner Nurse research project was undertaken with this aim in mind. This included both qualitative and quantitative components, and involved not only the person with dementia, but their family, friends, communities, and the nurses and other carers.Led by and centred around the communities directly affected, a number of key themes emerged from the project which gave voice to the gaps and needs in care, but also highlighted the potential areas of strength that can be built on to improve care for the Gitxsan person living with dementia. This presentation speaks towards the experience of this particular project and these particular communities with the hopes that further dialogue and knowledge exchange can lead to transferable learning in other separated but related settings.
Dec 14, 2022
1:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Music and Wellness: how to use music effectively in caregiving and in self-care
The connections we make to music are incredibly strong. We can access these important connections in every stage of life, whether it's in infancy, teen years, adulthood and advanced age. What if we not only accessed these connections, but utilized them for the wellness of our loved ones and ourselves? Discover ways to use music effectively for health, connect with loved ones through music and how to use music for ones own self-care in this workshop with certified music therapist Kelsi Mcinnes.
Nov 23, 2022
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Creating Safer Spaces: Gender Diversity in Long-Term Care Homes
Josephine Agudo (she/they) is a registered nurse with a specialty in geriatrics who works as an educator and resource clinician with the VCH Long-Term Care and Assisted Living Professional Practice Team. She is a PIECES champion and certified GPA (Gentle Persuasive Approaches) Coach. Josephine is passionate about empowering and enabling the people who live and work in long term care homes to be seen and heard. She advocates for safer spaces and for personhood-promoting practices for the 2SLGBTQIA+ seniors community and people living with dementia in long-term care.
Nov 3, 2022
1:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Home Care & the Continuing Care System: How Does it Work?
The session will include a brief overview of the Continuing Care system and Home Care including how to make a referral, what you can expect from the assessment and what types of services might be available to help support. There will be ample time to ask questions in order to learn more about the Home Care services in the Edmonton zone.
Oct 26, 2022
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Alzheimer's Disease is a life-limiting illness with a terminal phase
In this presentation, Kath will discuss the terminal nature of Alzheimer's Disease, and explore what this means for your role in caregiving, navigating, decision making, and advance care planning. Kath will draw on her experiences as a hospice palliative care nurse and thanatologist. Please send questions in advance, and prepare to participate during the session.
Sep 21, 2022
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
"Ask Us Anything!" Presentation with Dr. Bill Gibson & Arlene Huhn
Have you have been recently diagnosed, supporting a family member or friend who has been diagnosed, or just generally interested to learn more about dementia? Then this is the live event for you! Dementia can have so many unanswered questions and it's hard to know where to start some days. Join us as we welcome two professionals in the field for a meeting that is just that, ask them anything and learn more about dementia today!
May 18, 2022
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Supporting 2SLGBTQI+ Seniors with Dementia/Mild Cognitive Impairment: The Canadian Context
Participants will have the opportunity to learn about the importance of language and be provided with resources for accessing a 2SLGBTQI+ common language glossary. We will then focus on seniors and the context of historical discrimination experienced by many 2SLGBTQI+ seniors. We will examine disparities related to 2SLGBTQI+ seniors mental health and physical health, based on literature and based on the experiences of these elders. We will then apply what we've learned to 2SLGBTQI+ elders who are experiencing dementia/mild cognitive impairment, with the goal of leaving with multiple clinical pearls.
May 5, 2022
1:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Emergency Preparedness with the Hon. Lisa Raitt
What you don't know could harm you. Join us as we welcome the honourable Lisa Raitt as she shares her experience with being a care partner. Learn how you can best be prepared for various emergency situations while caring for someone living with dementia.
Apr 20, 2022
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Minds in Motion® - Activities for the home!
Come join us to celebrate Brain Health Awareness Month, and to experience our trademarked Minds in Motion® program. Learn more about how we offer it virtually and how you can adapt some of the activities for some in-home fun!
Mar 3, 2022
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Creating a Life Story
Join Christene Gordon, Lead of Client Services at the Alzheimer Society of Alberta and NWT as she leads you the essential elements of developing a "Life Story". Creating a "Life Story" can help us to learn about what the person values in life, what they see as important in themselves, in others, and in the world around them. However, it is important that we recognize that people continue to change, as do their tastes, opinions and interests. It is important that life story work is seen as a process, and not a one-of.
Feb 16, 2022
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Understanding Dementia - Tips and Techniques
In this session, you will learn techniques to help you support your family member or friend living with dementia. As care partners, it can be challenging to know what the "right" thing is to say or not to say. Tips and examples will be provided. Communication is key when it comes to helping support someone living with dementia, but communication is more than us speaking to a person. Join us to learn other communication strategies.
Jan 19, 2022
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Demystifying Neuropsychology presented by Dr. Robert Frerichs
A person who experiences changes in memory or other thinking abilities may be referred to a neuropsychologist for an in-depth evaluation. Join us as Dr. Frerichs, a geriatric clinical neuropsychologist, shares details about these assessments and how they shed light on understanding what happens to brain functions in a person with dementia.
Jan 13, 2022
1:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Dementia, Depression, Diabetes, a 3D Presentation presented by Dr. Leon Kagan
Dr. Kagan will examine the clinical and research relationship between the 3D's as well as the epidemiology. He will also discuss treatment options and future treatment developments regarding the 3D's.
Dec 15, 2021
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Demystifying Neuropsychology presented by Dr. Robert Frerichs
A person who experiences changes in memory or other thinking abilities may be referred to a neuropsychologist for an in-depth evaluation. Join us as Dr. Frerichs, a geriatric clinical neuropsychologist, shares details about these assessments and how they shed light on understanding what happens to brain functions in a person with dementia.
Nov 17, 2021
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Unraveling Capacity Assessment presented by Dr. Jasneet Parmar
Come and learn more about what is capacity assessment, when is it done and who does it?
Oct 20, 2021
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
How do you evaluate information about dementia research that you find on the web? Presented by Dr. David Hogan
Every month there appears to be an announcement about a new way to prevent or treat Alzheimer's disease. How can you evaluate this information? What questions should be asking? In this webinar we will go over how you can assess the credibility of the information you find and determine if it is for you.
Sep 28, 2021
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
The Art and Science of Mindful Aging presented by Dr. Thamarai Moorthy
Mindfulness is the ancient art of paying full attention to what is happening around us. Mindfulness can be practiced in many ways. It is a skill that can be learned by anyone regardless of age or health status. Research shows that practicing mindfulness as we age can help us live happier and healthier lives. Mindfulness helps us embrace both the benefits and challenges that come with getting older.
Sep 21, 2021
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Adopt Routines for Better Brain Health
Having a daily routine can reduce stress, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.Learn how Zamplo can help you create and maintain healthy routines when it comes to medication compliance and activity tracking.Recognizing patterns allows us to predict and expect what is coming.See how recording and graphing your data routinely can help detect patterns in your mental and physical health.Use your health data for proactive brain health.
May 25, 2021
2:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Watching and Listening - Finding Enjoyable Ways to Spend Time Together
Sometimes it's the little things we can miss which can change moments in the day for example turning our chair to face a window or using the internet to rediscover a favourite song or comedy sketch to share with a loved one. When our world felt a bit smaller with the Covid 19 pandemic, we had to find creative ways to spend our time which didn't involve going out and meeting others. So what can we find in our homes and on our doorsteps which will lift our spirits and bring back positive memories? In this presentation, Sally will be sharing a range of practical ideas particularly those tapping into the two sense of sight and sound.
May 19, 2021
1:30 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Maintaining the Connection - Successful and Meaningful Visits with Individuals Living with Dementia
What does "Quality of Life" mean to you? Join us for a discussion on how to use the 5 senses to help identify meaningful activities to do during visits with your loved ones.
Apr 21, 2021
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
New Considerations in the Care of People Living with Dementia
**Please note this presentation topic has changed**"Newer considerations in the care of people with Alzheimer's disease"Having or caring for a loved-one with dementia can create a flood of emotions and challenges. While we always want to prevent dementia, even slowing its progression can improve the quality of life for both the person with dementia and their carers. The good news is that actions which prevent dementia are the same ones which can slow its progress. Even more importantly, these actions are simple and have beneficial impacts on physical health as well. Healthy eating, physical activity, social interactions and a sense of purpose in life are all effective ways of preventing and slowing dementia not to mention improving quality of life at all stages. While such recommendations may sound rather mundane, there is now a large body of evidence which explains how these lifestyle factors have a direct impact on the brain. Sometimes the simplest interventions are the best interventions.
Mar 17, 2021
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Constructing Family Biographies When Living with Dementia
Join us to talk about the work Dr. Roach has done with families on constructing biographies and how people may be able to do it themselves - especially during COVID-19, the activity could be beneficial to families.
Feb 17, 2021
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Feelings of Needs and Expressions
Learn more with geriatric psych nurse Jeannine Chemello about the types of behaviours people living with dementia sometimes experience. Get a better understanding of the behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia and learn how to respond with a problem-solving approach.
Jan 20, 2021
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Self-Care During the Holidays
Holiday Tips & Self Care, Angela King, MTS, ARCT is a Certified Spiritual Care Practitioner from AHS and will join us to discuss holiday tips for care partners who are caring for someone living with Dementia. Angela will also give some tips on how to do a little self-care during what can be a stressful time of year for many.
Dec 16, 2020
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Bladder Health for People Living with Dementia
Dr. Adrian Wagg will join us to discuss bladder problems and accidental leakage of urine that are more common in people living with dementia. This presentation will discuss the types of problems, the available treatments and methods of dealing with dementia-related difficulty in successful toileting.
Nov 18, 2020
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Restoring Trust: COVID-19 and the Future of Long Term Care and your Impact Evaluation Report
Dr. Carol Estabrooks will join us to discuss the effects that COVID-19 has had on our trust in the long-term care home system, and how we can change for the better moving forward.
Oct 21, 2020
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Life During a Pandemic: Promoting Well-Being for Everyone
Join us to celebrate World Alzheimer Day!In this presentation, Dr, Power will review everyday challenges that have been magnified by the coronavirus pandemic, both for people living with dementia and those who support them. He will outline his framework for supporting those living with dementia and offer ways in which the well-being of both those living with the diagnosis and their supportive partners can be enhanced through these difficult times. In the process, he will describe successful strategies for coping with isolation and the anxiety caused by recent world events. There will be adequate time for discussion at the end of the talk.
Sep 21, 2020
3:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Strategies for Effective Communication in Supporting Individuals Living with Dementia
Dr. Tammy Hopper will share tips and strategies to help you as a care partner communicate more effectively with your family member living with a dementia. Tammy will share examples of what you can do in the early/middle stages when communication starts to change, and she will provide tips as the disease progresses and communication becomes more challenging. This session will be helpful for all care partners.
Jun 18, 2020
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Exercise and Brain Health: It's never too late!
In this webinar, we will discuss evidence on risk factors for Alzheimer's Disease and other dementia (ADRD) and lifestyle modification that have been shown to impact healthy brain ageing. A special focus will be given to exercise and its role in improving mental abilities in older adults. We will also discuss the effects of exercise on sleep and blood flow to the brain, mechanisms that we think underlie the cognitive benefits.
Jun 10, 2020
1:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
The Importance of Planning Ahead
Join us as lawyer Doris Bonora discusses the importance of planning ahead, when it comes to creating wills, enduring power of attorney, and personal directives.
Jun 4, 2020
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Online Sing-Along of the Classic's with Sara Brooks
Join Sara Brooks, an Edmonton-based singer and choir conductor, and sing-a-long to the classics - Elvis, Bing, Frank, and more! She'll have you singing...literally. We will be singing (no previous music experience needed)!
May 28, 2020
1:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
The Importance of Oral Hygiene for People Living with Dementia
Many people under-estimate the importance of good hygiene for people living with dementia (and us)! Minn Yoon will discuss what can happen if good oral health is forgotten. Minn will also share information from a study which tested some designs of equipment and how to help support people living with a dementia continue to have appropriate hygiene.
May 27, 2020
10:00 AM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Creating a Meaningful Life: Recreation for people with dementia
This presentation will help participants learn how to adapt recreation programming and activities to help ensure that people with dementia still feel connected to a sense of meaning and purpose in their daily lives.Webinar Activity: all participants should ensure they have small seven pieces of paper, a pen or pencil, and a table on which to write on.
May 21, 2020
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
The Importance of Music for People Living with Dementia and Care Partners
This presentation by Sara Brooks, Edmonton-based singer and choir conductor, will have you singing….literally, we will be singing (no previous music experience needed)! Sara will share some knowledge of how to use music with your family member living with dementia whether they live with you or live elsewhere. Music can touch everyone, even someone with advanced dementia.
May 13, 2020
1:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Taking Care of You: Anticipatory Grief, Ambiguous Grief, and the Importance of Self-Care
Join us for this presentation by Sarah Karesa , Grief Counsellor for Pilgrims Hospice, as she discusses exploring loss, exploring grief, different types of grief, and how care partners need to take care of themselves.
May 7, 2020
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
The Serious Effects of Loneliness on Seniors: Mental & Physical Consequences
Dr. Richard Lewanczuk speak about this serious issue affecting seniors and even more so now with COVID-19. People tend to think of boredom, frustration, lack of joy. There are serious mental health implications, but one area that has been neglected is the physical health consequence of social isolation and loneliness. Loneliness has adverse effects on the immune system (paradoxically making people more susceptible to viral infections), the cardiovascular system, blood pressure, diabetes, and the inflammatory response. In addition, cognitive functions are impaired: memory, reasoning, and such. This would tend to make conditions such as Alzheimer's worse. Care partners are affected as well - in all respects. They too become more isolated and they too suffer the emotional, mental and physical consequences.
Apr 29, 2020
1:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Understanding Dementia and the Different Stages
In this presentation Dr. Bill Gibson will give an introduction to dementia, the different types, and talk though what can be expected on a dementia journey for everyone involved, as well as discuss the medical treatments and other "top tips".
Apr 23, 2020
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Common Issues Care Partners Experience
Join us as Dr. Jayna Holyod-Leduc from the University of Calgary and AHS presents on common issues that care partners face when looking after family members with dementia. She will also provide some practical evidence-informed advice and tools to help manage the more stressful or challenging parts of being a care partner.
Jan 22, 2018
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Late Stage: Growing Seeds of Hope Session 1
A hope therapist will help you understand the importance of hope on your journey as a care partner. Find out how to maintain hope, the importance of self-care, and how to get the help and support you need.
Nov 20, 2017
6:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Late Stage: Taking Care of You, Grief and Self Care Session 5
A bereavement counselor will help you understand the grieving process and how to recognize grief. Find out how grief can affect you throughout your journey as a care partner and strategies to get the support you need to take care of yourself.
Nov 13, 2017
6:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Late Stage: Maintaining the Connection Session 4
A recreation therapist will give you the ideas to help support a family member who is living in a care facility to ensure the best quality of life.
Nov 6, 2017
6:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Baycrest: Brain Health Food Guide!
Join us as Dr. Carol Greenwood shares there brand new
Nov 2, 2017
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Canadian Brain Health Food Guide from Baycrest Health Sciences
Baycrest scientists have led the development of the first Canadian Brain Health Food Guide to help adults over 50 preserve their thinking and memory skills as they age."There is increasing evidence in scientific literature that healthy eating is associated with retention of cognitive function, but there is also a lot of misinformation out there," says Dr. Carol Greenwood, co-author of the Brain Health Food Guide, senior scientist at Baycrest's Rotman Research Institute (RRI) and professor emeritus at the University of Toronto.Research has found that dietary patterns similar to those outlined in the Brain Health Food Guide are associated with decreasing the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease by 36 per cent and mild cognitive impairment (a condition likely to develop into Alzheimer's) by 27 per cent.
Nov 2, 2017
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Late Stage: Preparing for Changes Ahead Session 3
A physician will explain the changes individuals with dementia are likely to experience in the later stages of the disease so you know what to expect. Life transitions and decision making will also be discussed.
Oct 30, 2017
6:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Late Stage: Working with Care Providers Session 2
A facility worker will discuss the role of family and staff when someone moves into a care facility and how to help everyone adjust.
Oct 23, 2017
6:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
What Matters Most!
Please note this meeting will start at 7pm CDT as it is being hosted from Manitoba.Join us for the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba's live meeting with Heather Ann Dixon, Legal Counsel. She will discuss the importance of having an up to date will, power of attorney and health care directive. She will review why choosing someone you trust and who understands your wishes and values is the most important step when preparing these documents. Responsibilities of a person designated in the legal roles of executor, power of attorney or health care proxy will be also be discussed.
Sep 28, 2017
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Depression and Care Partner Burnout
Join us to hear Dr. Hannah Cherniawsky BMSc, MD of the University of Alberta speak on care partner burnout. She is the current leader of the Health Savvy Seniors Initiative. The initiative aims to educate and empower seniors to be active members of their health care team. Then we will have a presentation on depression, this will be given by a second year medical student from the University of Alberta, she is new to the initiative but is excited to be a community advocate for seniors.
May 18, 2017
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Solving Alzheimer's disease: A search for the Holy Grail!
Dr. Jack Jhamandas will speak on current research being done with Alzheimer Disease and related dementia.Dr. Jhamandas is currently a Distinguished University Professor in the Division of Neurology at the University of Alberta. He is a practicing neurologist and neuroscientist whose research interests focus on misfolded proteins in Alzheimer's and prion diseases and aspects of brain control of cardiovascular function.
Apr 11, 2017
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Early Stage: Planning Ahead Session 4
A lawyer will explain the legal and financial documents you need to get done in the early stage while the person with the disease has capacity to make decisions and make their wishes be known. You will have a chance to examine the barriers that often prevent planning ahead.
Mar 27, 2017
6:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Roger Marple Live Meeting
Please join us as Roger shares his story of his journey with Alzheimer's disease. We will then open up the live meeting for a Q & A portion with Roger.
Mar 23, 2017
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Early Stage: Understanding Dementia Session 3
A geriatrician will explain the medical management of the disease including types of dementia, diagnosis, risk factors, symptoms, treatment, and progression.
Mar 20, 2017
6:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Early Stage: You as a Care Partner Session 2
Learn what you might expect in your role as a family care partner from an experienced family member who has completed this journey. Find out how your role might impact your relationship with your family member, what emotions you might experience and what challenges you might face. Start planning how to care for yourself during this journey.
Mar 13, 2017
6:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Be Ready for an Emergency Department Visit
Dr. Kathleen Hunter and Dr. Belinda Parke discuss ways to be prepared in the case a visit to an Emergency Department is necessary.Whether it is a planned admission or an unexpected emergency visit, the unfamiliar noises and activities of a hospital can be especially upsetting for a person living with dementia. Preparation can improve a visit.
Mar 7, 2017
7:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Early Stage: Exploring the Experience of Dementia Session 1
Someone with dementia will help you understand dementia from their perspective - how it feels, the challenges they face and how they maintain hope. You will also be introduced to the concept of person-centered care and learn about healthy life style choices for people with dementia.
Mar 6, 2017
6:00 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Anne Baltimore Story
Please listen along as Anne shares her story about her mother who was diagnosed with dementia and their family's journey through the progression.
Feb 1, 2017
10:45 AM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
End Of Life: Getting the Paperwork in Order Session 4
A lawyer will discuss legal issues and estate administration so you will know what is needed when death occurs.
Dec 6, 2016
5:30 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
End Of Life: Saying Good-Bye Session 3
A grief expert will discuss the grieving process when a family member dies.
Nov 29, 2016
5:30 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
End Of Life: End of Life Care Session 2
Palliative care nurses will explain what to expect in the end stage of dementia and how to provide comfort to someone who is near the end of life.
Nov 22, 2016
5:30 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Bringing out the best, living well together with dementia - The UK Butterfly Approach
Please join us as Sally Knocker shares ideas on what is working in the UK in supporting families to bring out the best in each other when living with dementia. Join us to see, feel and understand how the UK's ‘Butterfly moments' can create meaningful ways to connect, reach and occupy people to live well with their experience of a dementia.
Nov 17, 2016
6:30 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
End Of Life: Ethical Choices Session 1
A clinical ethicist will help you understand the difficult decisions you may need to make at the end of a family member's life.
Nov 15, 2016
5:30 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
I'm Still Here Public Forum
Hear people living with dementia share their stories and provide tips. This will help us better understand and support those living with dementia. Care partners will speak about how they ensure their family member is *still here*.
Mar 2, 2016
6:30 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Middle Stage: Living with Change Session 5
Session 5: Managing Stress - Develop coping strategies to deal with the stress that results from your role as a care partner.
Dec 7, 2015
5:40 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Middle Stage: Living with Change Session 4
Session 4: Activities of Daily Living - An occupational therapist will discuss how we can build on a person's strengths to help maintain their quality of life.
Nov 30, 2015
5:45 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Middle Stage: Living with Change Session 3
Session 3: Communication and Caregiving - A speech language pathologist will help you communicate more effectively with your family member.
Nov 23, 2015
5:45 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Middle Stage: Living with Change Session 2
Session 2: Responding to Behaviors that Challenge Us - A geriatric psych. nurse will help you understand behaviours and how to respond positively.
Nov 9, 2015
5:45 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Middle Stage: Living with Change Session 1
Session 1: Introduction to Living with Change - Learn the issues and changes faced by people in the middles stages of dementia and where to get help.
Nov 2, 2015
5:45 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Mind over Matter - Keeping Control over Bladder and Bowel Incontinence
This informative session by Dr. Adrian Wagg and Kathleen Hunter, RN will help you understand issues of urinary and fecal incontinence for someone living with dementia at different stages of the disease process. This session will answer questions why this occurs, management options including continence productions and medication and address the question of whether incontinence is the "deal breaker" that leads people to placement. Join us on October 27, 2015 at 7pm.
Oct 27, 2015
6:30 PM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
My Tools for Care - Intervention Study
Evaluation of a Transition Intervention for Family Caregivers of Persons with Alzheimer Disease or Related Dementias and Multiple Chronic Conditions
May 1, 2015
8:30 AM
60 minutes
Past Live Meeting
Being Together in Dementia Care
Please join us for our first live meeting! Dr. David Sheard presents on understanding the real meaning of person centred care and know if your health care professional and/orcare community is really person centred.*Please note that the start time is 7:00PM Alberta/MT time.
Oct 20, 2014
6:45 PM
60 minutes
See all Live and Past Events
Care Partner

Resources

Our Society links individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease and other dementias to a community of learning, information and support.

What is Involuntary Separation?

The term “Involuntary Separation” does not mean getting a legal separation or divorce. This means that the spouses are considered single only for the purpose of calculating their OAS and GIS benefits.

“Involuntary Separation” refers to a situation in which senior couples must live apart due to circumstances beyond their control, often because one or both need long-term care. This separation can place a financial strain on the couple, especially if their income is limited to public pensions like Old Age Security (OAS), Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), and Canada Pension Plan (CPP).

Couples can apply for “Involuntary Separation” status under the Old Age Security Act to alleviate this. This allows each spouse to be treated as single for OAS and GIS calculations, potentially increasing their benefits. This status is granted when the separation is involuntary, such as when one or both spouses must move to a long-term care facility.

For more details, you can contact Service Canada or visit Your Complete Guide to Canada's Old Age Security Program.

 

To qualify for “Involuntary Separation” status under the Old Age Security (OAS) Act in Canada, the following criteria must be met:

Physical Separation - You and your spouse must be living apart, no longer under the same roof.

Involuntary Nature - The separation must be due to circumstances beyond your control, such as health issues requiring one or both spouses to move to a long-term care facility.

Age Requirement - At least one spouse must be 65 years or older and receiving OAS.

Marital Status - You must be legally married or in a common-law partnership.

If these conditions are met, you can apply to have each spouse treated as single to calculate OAS and GIS benefits, potentially increasing the financial support you receive.

 

To apply for “Involuntary Separation” status in Canada, follow these steps:

Obtain the Necessary Forms

Fill out the form with accurate information about your situation. Ensure you provide all required details to demonstrate that the separation is involuntary due to circumstances beyond your control.

Submit the Forms

 

You can submit the completed forms to Service Canada by mail, phone, in person, or online.

For further guidance, visit Service Canada or speak with a representative at 1-800-277-9914.

What educational materials and emotional support are available?

The Alzheimer Society in your community can provide educational resources to help you learn more about the disease, referrals to help you access the practical support you need, and one-on-one and group support to help you cope with the emotional impact of the disease. Contact your local Alzheimer Society. Alternatively, try typing your question into the search bar above. 

Is there anyone or anything that can give me a break in caregiving?

Ask family members and friends for their help and support. Take advantage of community programs that provide respite and relief from caregiving, practical help with meals or housework and assistance with the care of the person with Alzheimer's disease. And plan ahead for both the immediate future and the long term. These are just some of the things care partners can do to make their lives a bit easier.

Contact your local Alzheimer Society for help connecting to services such as support groups, counseling and information resources.  Use the search bar above to find a Community Care Access office of Alberta Health Services close to you.  They can provide information about publicly funded respite options.

1 2 3 7
Discover more Resources
Logo

Join the HelpForDementia Community

Connect, share, and learn with care partners, individuals living with dementia, family, and friends.