Alzheimer Society Waterloo Wellington

Did you know our brains are made up of 73% water? Water plays a vital role in delivering nutrients to the brain and in removing toxins. That's why staying hydrated is an essential way to ensure your brain is functioning with clarity. #NutritionMonth

Join us on Tuesday, March 16 at 1PM for The A’s of Dementia, where you will learn about how the A’s of dementia affect a person’s day-to-day behaviour and what you can do to help. To register for this webinar, please call us at 519-742-1422. Registered participants will be sent an email with details on how to connect virtually by phone, computer, tablet or laptop. These sessions are offered via Zoom but do not require a web-camera. Please note: Education events with insufficient registration will be cancelled.

On Thursday, March 11 at 12 PM, join us for a Brain Health Webinar to learn about the risk factors associated with Alzheimer's disease and dementia and strategies to improve or maintain the health of the brain. Register here: http://bit.ly/as-brain-health

Women are disproportionately impacted by dementia those living with dementia and care partners alike. In fact, 72% of Canadians living with Alzheimer’s disease are women and in general, women are more likely to become the primary care partner to someone living with dementia. This International Womens Day, empower the women in your life who are living with dementia, the women who are caring for someone living with dementia, and women every where, by reaching out and letting them know you are there for them.

It's Social Work Week and we want to recognize and thank social workers everywhere for all their hard work and dedication to those living with dementia.

It looked a little different than last time, but we want to thank everyone who joined us for our virtual annual Winter Warmer whisky fundraising event! We had so much fun tasting whisky, auctioning off excellent prizes and, of course, raising money to support families impacted by dementia right here in our community. This evening spent together virtually certainly... lifted our spirits Winter Warmer 2021 is presented by IG Wealth Management KW and The Macallan, with special thanks to Watty Way. We also want to thank Highview Residences, Audi KW, Jackman Ltd., Lee Quaile - Chestnut Park, Chartwell, Homecare Assistance, and The Village at University Gates for their support of this event! Cheers-- until next year!

Are you a first responder working with people living with dementia? You can discover materials, resources, communication tips, and training opportunities to help you effectively conduct searches for missing people living with dementia. Gain access to these resources at http://ow.ly/e2WZ50CQfv8

Every Wednesday beginning on January 13, join the LEADS Group for Frontline Care Providers to build on your knowledge of dementia, caregiving related topics, and to connect with other care providers to share experiences, challenges and strategies while providing care for people living with dementia. Register here: http://ow.ly/Y7iW50CQfv5

Meet Aliciaa beautiful, vibrant mother and grandmother who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease 10 years ago. Over the next 4 weeks, in honour of Alzheimer's Awareness Month, join us as we visit Alicia and her family in their home to get a first-hand look at the grace, dignity, compassion and support each of them shares with Alicia and one another. Every three seconds, someone in the world is diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. When we asked why Alicia's family chose to s...hare their story, her daughter Judy told us her hope is to provide emotional strength and insight to those who are going through the same experience. Please watch part 1 of our series, Nevermore: Alicia's Story, to get a closer look at Alicia and her family's experience with Alzheimer's disease: http://ow.ly/s41d50CLwbm

To start the new year off right, we're sharing 3 ways to show your brain and body some love in 2021! 1. Break a sweat: ask your doctor what type of physical activities you can do. 2. Eat a well-balanced diet: fuel up on foods that are lower in fats and higher in vegetables and fruit. 3. Get enough sleep: when you're feeling tired, make sure to get some rest.

There's still time to claim your tax receipt! You have until TONIGHT at midnight! Bring down your 2020 taxes AND help people living with dementia and their families by making a gift. Send support: http://ow.ly/yFni50CvihI

Have you heard? We have a new website! Our website has been redesigned to help you find the information, resources you need and the latest events, that much easier. Visit our new website today!

Have you downloaded Together Apart: A Guide to Visiting from a Distance yet? This guide was created to help care partners like you create valuable visits, even from afar, by providing you with communication tips, visiting activities, and more. Download Together Apart today: http://ow.ly/F3nz50CeYRI

Happy Holidays from the Alzheimer Society to you! Thank you for your support this holiday season.

On November 26, join us for the online art series, Drawing What I See where participants will explore thematic collections of photographs as a source of inspiration for their individuals drawings. Register here: http://ow.ly/TXRF50CeYQC

It’s never too late to do something to support a caregiver. A simple phone call can brighten their day and remind them that they’re not alone. #CallACaregiver today and ask them how they're doing caregivers care, we can too.

Making the holidays meaningful for a person living with dementia can be challenge, and even more so this year with the pandemic. Here is celebration tip that can help you create new traditions and make this holiday season festive. Celebration Tip 2: Admire the decorations! Drive around the neighbourhood and enjoy the lights and festive decorations that your neighbours have on display.

Being a care partner is mentally, physically, and emotionally challenging. The holidays can bring additional feelings of stress, so we have put together some tips to implement in your life that will help you feel less overwhelmed. 1. Do only the occasions and traditions that are most important to you and your family. 2. Keep celebrations short. 3. Involve the person living with dementia in the preparations and decorating.... For more tips, go to http://ow.ly/K6yy50CvigG

While living with dementia can pose a variety of challenges, the interactive Living Safely with Dementia Resource Guide provides you with tips and strategies to ensure that people living with dementia can live safely in their day-to-day lives. Try it today: http://ow.ly/lpG450Cvigx

It's that time of year again and Giving Tuesday is only a few weeks away! As the largest day of global giving, we can't wait to come together and raise funds for people living with dementia, their care partners, and family.

Today we are celebrating National Philanthropy Day! Thanks to you, we can offer support, information, programs and education to people living with dementia, their families and care partners, all while funding ongoing research into the cause and cure. Thank you!

Do you need the perfect gift idea for the person living with dementia in your life? We have just the thing for you! Create a personalized activity book filled with a variety of puzzles and games that will help with brain stimulation and give them a sense of accomplishment.

On November 17, join us for a 1-hour online session of Gentle Non-Impact Aerobics Fitness with Jennifer! This program uses easy to follow movements to build strength and flexibility while conditioning your body. The sessions are adapted and sensitive to all levels of agility and are suitable for individuals who want the support of being seated throughout the class. Wear comfortable clothing and footwear. Register here: http://ow.ly/hcRa50CeYNv

On December 15 from 1 PM to 2 PM, join us for the Dementia and COVID-19 - Strategies for Caregivers webinar. This webinar will focus on providing family care partners with strategies to providing care while in times of social isolation. Register here at www.alzeducate.ca.

Make sure to claim your 2020 charitable tax receipt by December 31 at midnight! Bring down your 2020 taxes AND help people living with dementia and their families by making a gift. Send support: http://ow.ly/mTfo50CvidO

Did you know that within the next 20 years, the number of people living with dementia is expected to double? Get connected to the resources, information, and services you need as easily as possible and throughout the progression of Alzheimer's and dementia with First Link. To learn more, go to http://ow.ly/r5La50CeYM4.

Beginning on December 7 from 1 PM to 3 PM, join us for 3 sessions of U-First! for Care Partners, a new education program for family and friends who are providing direct support to someone experiencing behaviour changes as a result of dementia or other cognitive impairment. Note: You must attend all three sessions. Register today! http://ow.ly/i8zf50CvibX

November is the perfect time to declutter in preparation for winter hibernation! When we take the time to declutter, it leads to feelings of increased productivity and a chance to focus on the things that bring us joy. Here are some tips on how to begin! 1. Get into the right mindset by putting on some of your favourite music. 2. Start small with places like your closet or cupboards. 3. Organize your things into 3 piles: keep, donate, or sell.

November 13th is Kindness Day. Take a moment to call a caregiver you know and ask them how they’re doing. Caregivers care, we can too. #CallACaregiver today!

#NationalSeniorSafetyWeek is almost over, but we want to share some tips that will help protect you from financial fraud and other scams. 1. Use strong passwords and change them often. 2. Be suspicious of messages claiming to be urgent in nature with deadlines for action 3. Always check the sender's email address.

This Remembrance Day let us honour all the brave individuals who served our country. Today we take a moment to thank all those who fought for our peace and freedom. Thank you for your service.

Did you know that falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults? If you are caring for someone living with dementia, the importance of fall prevention should not be overlooked. Today, in support of National Senior Safety Week, we want to highlight important safety tips to remember that will help minimize the risks of falling. 1. Maintain stability by doing gentle exercises that will improve flexibility, balance, and muscle strength.... 2. Make sure areas are well-illuminated as bright lighting makes it easier to spot potential tripping hazards. 3. Add a pair of non-slip shoes to your wardrobe instead of just wearing socks. See more

Many caregivers say they feel alone and isolated. While family members and friends often ask how the care recipient is doing, they don’t always think to ask how the caregiver is doing. Caregivers have told us that a simple phone call can make a big difference. If you know a caregiver, take a moment to give them a call on November 13th, for Kindness Day. You can ask them how their day was, what’s new for them, or just let them know that you’re thinking of them. Caregivers care. We can too. #CallACaregiver for Kindness Day on November 13th.

Did you know that 60% of people living with dementia are at risk of becoming lost at some point? Finding Your Way is an online hub with resources that can help people living with dementia and their families reduce the risks of going missing. For support and safety tips, visit http://ow.ly/CvpM50CeYKl.

Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario is hosting "Money Tips for Difficult Times" on Nov 4. This webinar will provide seniors with practical tips on how to plan for emergencies, what to do and not do when managing your money, and an opportunity to discuss impacts on investments. Register here:

Happy Halloween! Did you know that crafting helps foster mindfulness and eases symptoms of depression? Celebrate today by creating your own spooky decorations, like pumpkin apple stamps, Halloween slime, or a popsicle stick Frankenstein! To get started, go to http://ow.ly/Ito850BPHp7

Our #MonthOfGratitude may be coming to an end, but there's always time to reflect and remind the people in your life that you're thankful for them. As always, we’re so grateful for the outpouring support that people like you show us and those living with dementia.

Did you know you can take dementia courses on our AlzEducate platform on your own time? Choose from hour-long courses like Dementia 101 that are tailored for people with dementia, family and friends, health care professionals, and improve your knowledge of dementia care. http://ow.ly/mZSN50BPHnr

How can we help those living with dementia feel happy and comfortable during these times? Organize virtual dinner and a movie time! Get together with your family or friends virtually for dinner or a movie! These small virtual gatherings can help you feel connected to your loved ones, even while apart. For more tips, go to http://ow.ly/rId450BPHn9

This evening: Join us for a FREE webinar with Dr. Nicole Didyk of The Wrinkle on caring for someone with dementia while physically distancing in the community.

Focus on wellness and create informal connections among people who are on the same journey as you with The Boomers Club! On October 21, engage in a variety of recreational activities including art, games, exercise, food, social chats and more. Register today: http://ow.ly/5pKM50BPHmv

Join us this Tuesday evening! Save your spot here: http://ow.ly/HZCg50BVDph

Before COVID-19, people living with dementia faced social isolation regularly, but with physical distancing now a requirement, this isolation has intensified. That's why the Alzheimer Society of PKLNH, the Alzheimer Society of Oxford, and the Alzheimer Society of Ontario created Together Apart: A Guide to Visiting from a Distance. You can download a digital or printable version of the guide here: http://ow.ly/kv1450BPHly

What are we grateful for this October? We’re grateful to our frontline and essential workers who work tirelessly everyday to keep us safe during this pandemic, and always. THANK YOU for your continuous commitment to keeping our communities and most vulnerable safe. We couldn’t do it with you.

Today is National Train Your Brain Day! Learning new things in new ways helps to preserve brain cells and, in some cases, can even reverse some of the cognitive decline that comes with aging. Here are some ways you can challenge your mind: ... 1. Take up a new hobby like sewing! 2. Complete a sudoku or crossword puzzle! 3. Read a book!

This Thanksgiving, we're giving thanks for YOU! Without the amazing commitment from people like you, we wouldn’t be able to provide essential supports to people living with dementia or fund essential research to understand this disease and find a cure. You make it all possible!

On Wednesday, October 14 from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM the Alzheimer Society Speaker Series presents: Recent Breakthroughs in Alzheimer's Disease. This free online presentation features Dr. Cohen who will walk participants through the latest developments in Alzheimer's disease research, and ways that everyone can take action against the disease. Register here: http://ow.ly/stNp50BPHcP

It's World Alzheimer's Day! Today, and every day, help us smash stigma and raise awareness by wearing blue to show your support for people affected by Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Share what you're doing today to support people living with dementia using #GoBlueforAlz all day long!

Join us on Friday, September 25 from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM as the University Health Network Memory Clinic, Alzheimer Society of Canada, and Alzheimer Society of Toronto present, ‘Nothing About us Without Us: Creating the First Canadian Charter of Rights for People with Dementia’. This event will discuss the importance of a rights-based approach to dementia, the first Canadian Charter of Rights for People with Dementia and discuss ideas for how to use it, and provide an overview of programs and services provided by the Alzheimer Society of Toronto. Register now: http://ow.ly/rTPS50Bs2d0

In celebration of World Alzheimer's Day, the Niagara Falls are going BLUE to raise awareness for people living with dementia in their community and around the world. While you may not be able to go see the Falls light up in person, you can watch the light show LIVE from the comfort of your own home. On September 20 at 10 PM, settle in and watch the Falls glow here: http://ow.ly/vf9E50Bs26K

Did you know 28,000 new patient referrals were received in 2019 and people who were referred directly to First Link by health-care professionals received services and supports 11 months sooner than clients who accessed the services themselves thanks to First Link? To learn more about First Link, please go to http://ow.ly/rOjZ50B38Z1.

It's important to keep your body and brain active, especially during times such as these. Try staying active at home by doing some gentle exercise videos. The Eldergym Senior Fitness YouTube channel has many short videos with gentle, at-home exercise routines that are sure to get your endorphins fired up! Check them out here: http://ow.ly/ET1U50B38Yo

On Monday, August 31, from 2PM-3PM, join us for the Finding Your Way online workshop where we will discuss ways to reduce the risk of people with dementia from going missing and how to respond to a missing incident as a care partner, professional, or a community member. To register, go to http://ow.ly/dQ7T50B38Y1

Did you know that you can take free, online dementia courses and webinars with our platform, AlzEducate? From topics like Dementia 101, Caregiver Stress, and Long-Distance Caregiving, to live webinars that focus on Updates in Alzheimer’s disease research and healthy family dynamics, AlzEducate offers you endless learning opportunities! Learn more about AlzEducate and the upcoming, free dementia courses and webinars by going to http://ow.ly/KgUP50B38X3.

Do you need some activities to keep you busy this summer? Try painting a beautiful picture with water colours! Get some water colours, paper, and some brushes to make for a fun, creative day! If you can, try to go outside and choose your favourite tree or flower to paint. When you're finished, don't forget to put it on display!

Did you know that music has the potential to increase physical and social activity, reignite older memories, and improve sleep, mood, cognition, communication, and overall quality of life for people living with dementia? The Alzheimer Society Music Project reconnects people with the soundtrack of their lives by providing MP3 players loaded with personalized music to people living with dementia. To learn more, go to http://ow.ly/gFcY50B38VZ

Our friends at the Alzheimer Society of Niagara Region invite you to a Respite Recreation Hour every Monday from 11 AM-12 PM for fun and engaging activities like trivia, puzzles, games, stories, and more! To register, click here http://ow.ly/4mTQ50B38WN.

Do you need some activities to keep you busy this summer? Try to enjoy the outdoors all while creating your own bird feeder! This DIY project will bring the birds to you so you can do some bird watching in the comfort of outside or inside your own home!

Happy International Day of Friendship! For people living with dementia, maintaining meaningful friendships can be difficult. Today, reach out to those people in your life by sending them a text, an email, talking on the phone, or have a video chat to show them how much their friendship means to you!

While this summer is a little different, it is still important that we keep our seniors safe and cool in the summer heat as they are more vulnerable to overheating and heat stroke. Here are some ways to stay cool this summer! Keep Your Home Cool Try to keep your shades or curtains closed during the hottest part of the day to maintain a comfortable temperature.

There is more evidence that indicates people can reduce their risk of cognitive decline by adopting key lifestyle habits and finding ways to love their brain! Try to incorporate these healthy habits into your routine! 1. Break a Sweat: Incorporate gentle exercise routines into your lifestyle. 2. Hit the Books: Read your favourite book or find something new to exercise your brain! 3. Eat Well: Incorporate a healthy, balanced diet into your lifestyle.... 4. Challenge Yourself: Complete crossword and sudoku puzzles to challenge yourself! See more

Thank you to everyone who donated to our #GIVE65 campaign this month! We raised $755 to help more seniors in our community!

On Thursday, July 30, from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM, join us for our Finding Joy and Humour in Dementia Care workshop. This educational workshop is for care partners of individuals living with dementia with a focus on looking at the lighter side of caregiving. Register: http://ow.ly/IKEP50ACuKq

Take a trip out of this world and explore the solar system from the comfort of your own home with the Nine Planets Solar System Tour! This tour allows you to explore the solar system, the night sky and outer space in real-time. Start your adventure now!

As we continue to practice social distancing and physical isolation, it's more important than ever to periodically check in with ourselves to support our mental and physical wellbeing. In order to do so, we've created a self-care checklist that will help you make sure that you're doing everything you can to be safe, healthy, and happy!

Every donation makes a difference if we get the most donors, we can win an extra $2,500 and help even more seniors in our community! Help us win $2,500: http://ow.ly/5NEx50AwkOp

Our GIVE65 Event fundraising project is live! Support seniors and schedule your donation July 13 or 14 to help us compete for a $2,500 bonus grant. Donate now: http://ow.ly/3pU950AwkM6

We’re participating in the GIVE65 campaign this month! Scheduled gifts have the greatest chance of being matched, so schedule your gift today and your donation might just be doubled. Click here to learn more: http://ow.ly/q4OJ50AwkGk

On Tuesday, July 14, from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM, join us for our Self-Care for Care Partners workshop. This interactive workshop is designed to help those caring for people living with dementia and will explore the importance of self-care, the benefits, and the common barriers to practicing self-care. Register: http://ow.ly/MSwo50AqatD

Visit these mesmerizing Planet Jellies at Ripley's Aquarium of Canada! Sit back and watch the beautiful jellyfish from the comfort of your own home. Tune into the live jelly fish camera here: http://ow.ly/XtMY50Aqasl

On Monday, July 13, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, join us for our Supporting Communication workshop. This workshop discusses the changes in communication that occur in people living with dementia and provides strategies to communicate and support the individual using a person-centered approach. Register: http://ow.ly/wZm350AqarM