COVID-19: Information and support for people living with dementia, caregivers and health-care providers.

Your Society:British ColumbiaChange Your Society

Alzheimer Society of B.C.
828 W. 8th Avenue
Suite 300
Vancouver, British Columbia V5Z 1E2

Get directions

Phone:604-681-6530

Email:info@alzheimerbc.org

Provincial Societies:

1-800-936-6033

DONATE NOW

About dementia
- What is dementia?
  - What is dementia?The term "dementia" doesn't actually refer to one, specific disease. Rather, it's an overall term for a set of symptoms that are caused by disorders affecting the brain.
  - Common questions about dementiaGet the answers to the most common questions about dementia.
  - Dementia numbers in CanadaThe Alzheimer Society is committed to providing accurate and reliable data on dementia in Canada. Statistics listed on this page are the most current available and are updated periodically when new reports and studies are issued.
- What is Alzheimer's disease?
  - What is Alzheimer's disease?Alzheimer's disease is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that destroys brain cells, causing thinking ability and memory to deteriorate over time. Alzheimer's disease is not a normal part of aging, and is irreversible.
  - The history behind Alzheimer's diseaseWhile Alzheimer's has always been with us, attempts to understand and identify the disease and its impact didn't come about until very recently in human history.
  - The difference between Alzheimer's disease and other dementiaAlzheimer's disease and dementia do not mean the same thing. Understand the difference on this page.
  - How Alzheimer's disease changes the brainAlzheimer's disease can change the brain in many different ways, On this page, read about some of the changes you may expect as the disease progresses.
  - The stages of Alzheimer's diseaseAlzheimer's disease is usually described in terms of stages, indicating the severity of the symptoms. Learn about the stages on this page, from early stage to end of life.
  - Genetic testing and Alzheimer's diseaseGenetic testing can sometimes help identify whether a person has a high or low chance of developing Alzheimer's disease. On this page, find out more about genetic testing for Alzheimer's and whether it applies to you.
- Other types of dementia
  - Other types of dementiaWhile Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia, there are other types as well. Learn about them here.
  - LATE-NCLimbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy (or LATE-NC) is the most recently identified form of dementia, noted for its close similarity to Alzheimer’s.
  - Dementia with Lewy bodiesDementia with Lewy bodies – caused by abnormal 'Lewy bodies' deposits of protein called alpha-synuclein inside of the brain's nerve cells – shares many similarities with Parkinson’s disease.
  - Frontotemporal dementiaFrontotemporal dementia is an umbrella term for a group of rare disorders that primarily affect the areas of the brain associated with personality and behaviour.
  - Mixed dementiaIt's possible for someone to have more than one type of dementia. When this happens, it's known as mixed dementia.
  - Vascular dementiaThe most common type of dementia after Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia occurs when the brain’s blood supply is blocked or damaged, causing brain cells to be deprived of oxygen and die.
  - Young-onset dementiaWhen symptoms of dementia start before the age of 65, we use the term "young onset dementia."
  - Rare types of dementiaThere are many conditions that, in rare cases, can lead to dementia. Learn about them in this section.
  - Conditions related to dementiaLearn about conditions similar to dementia in this section.
- Do I have dementia?
  - Do I have dementia?If you're unsure whether you have dementia, this section will help you. Get answers to common questions. Recognize what's a warning sign and what's part of normal aging. Know when it may be time to seek a diagnosis.
  - The 10 warning signs of dementiaWhether you’re concerned for yourself or someone you care about, it's important to know the warning signs of dementia so you can ensure an early diagnosis. Here are 10 of the most common warning signs for dementia.
  - The differences between normal aging and dementiaIf you are experiencing difficulties with memory, know that they may not be signs of dementia. It could be memory loss as a part of normal aging.
  - How to get tested for dementiaIf you or someone you know is concerned about having dementia, it’s important that you can identify the warning signs, know when to talk to your doctor and understand how dementia is diagnosed. Follow these steps.
- How can I prevent dementia?
  - How can I prevent dementia?The most effective way to prevent Alzheimer's disease and other dementias is to minimize the risk factors and make healthy lifestyle choices that benefit both your body and brain.
  - Brain-healthy tips to reduce your risk of dementiaThis page lists evidence-based tips and strategies to help you lead a healthy, balanced lifestyle that protects your brain and reduces your risk of dementia.
  - Diabetes and dementiaWhat's the connection between diabetes and dementia? Learn more about this particular risk factor for dementia.
  - Risk factors for dementiaWhen it comes to dementia, there are risk factors you can change, and risk factors you cannot. Learn about both types on this page, as well as unproven risks that need more evidence to be considered valid.
- How can I treat dementia?
  - How can I treat dementia?There are currently no treatments that can reverse cognitive decline brought on by dementia. However, there are approaches you can take that can help you fight symptoms and maintain your quality of life for as long as possible.
  - Medications approved to treat Alzheimer's diseaseThere are no treatments today that can cure Alzheimer’s disease. However, there are currently four medications, approved by Health Canada, that can treat symptoms of the disease. Learn about them on this page.
  - Alternative treatments for dementiaThere are other ways to treat dementia that don't involve taking medications. However, it's important to know which alternative treatments have the evidence that proves that they are effective.
  - Potential treatments for dementiaLearn about the rigorous process to get a potential treatment for Alzheimer's disease or another type of dementia approved and available for the public.
  - Cannabis and the treatment of dementiaWhile there is ongoing promising research on the effects of cannabis, there is currently no evidence that cannabis is useful for the treatment or prevention of Alzheimer’s disease.
  - The risk of using antipsychotic medications to treat dementiaThe Alzheimer Society recommends that antipsychotics only be used as a last resort to treat behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia, especially in older adults. Instead, person-centred care is recommended as a first measure.
- Stigma against dementia
  - Stigma against dementiaStigma is one of the biggest barriers for people living with dementia to live fully with dignity and respect. Help us fight stigma by learning more about its effects and taking steps to reduce its impact.
  - 10 easy ways to fight stigma against dementiaFighting stigma is easier than you think. Learn how you can make a positive impact on the lives of people living with dementia.
  - How Canadians perceive dementiaMany Canadians acknowledge that people living with dementia regularly experience many forms of stigma. But there is still more work to be done to reduce stigma. Understand the results from our most recent Awareness Survey.
  - Myths and realities of dementiaMyths and misconceptions about Alzheimer's disease and dementia abound – what it is, who gets it, and how it affects the people who have it. These myths stand in the way of understanding the disease and helping those affected.
  - What does stigma against dementia look like?Stigma not only hurts people living with dementia, it discourages their families from confiding in others or getting the support they need. On this page, learn how to recognize stigma against dementia.
- About dementiaIn this section, learn more about dementia, including its most common type (Alzheimer's disease), other types of dementia and evidence-based recommendations on preventing and treating the disease.
Help and support
- COVID-19 and how we can help
- Find support in B.C.
  - Find support in B.C.First Link® dementia support connects people living with dementia and their care partners to support services, education and information as early as possible after diagnosis and throughout the progression of the disease.
  - First Link^® Dementia HelplineThe First Link® Dementia Helpline is for anyone affected by dementia, whether professionally or personally. Get the support you need, when you need it.
  - Vancouver CoastalGet information about our resource centres in Vancouver, Richmond and North Vancouver, plus the other communities served within Vancouver Coastal Health region, including Howe Sound and the Sunshine Coast.
  - Fraser RegionGet information about our resource centres in Surrey, Abbotsford and Chilliwack, plus the other communities we serve within the Fraser Heath region.
  - Vancouver IslandGet information about our resource centres in Victoria and Nanaimo, plus the other communities we serve in the Island Health region.
  - Interior RegionGet information about our resource centres in Kamloops, Kelowna and Penticton, plus the other communities we serve within the Interior Health region, including the East and West Kootenays.
  - Northern RegionGet information about our resource centre in Prince George plus the communities we serve in the Northern Health region.
- Programs and services
  - Programs and servicesLearn more about the programs and services we offer to people affected by dementia throughout British Columbia.
  - Dementia educationLearn about the different educational programs that our local Alzheimer resource centres can offer to help educate and empower people living with dementia and their families and friends.
  - Education workshopsEducation workshops are small group information workshops, facilitated to provide opportunities for live discussion. For those looking to learn about dementia and connect with others.
  - WebinarsLearn about dementia from anywhere by participating in one of our live webinars – all you need is a computer, tablet or phone!
  - Minds in Motion®Learn how our fitness and social program, Minds in Motion®, helps people living with any form of early-stage dementia with gentle exercise and social activities.
  - Support groupsWe offer Family Caregiver and Early Stage Support Groups. Learn how our support groups help caregivers and people living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
  - First Link® referralsFirst Link® referrals help physicians and other health-care providers connect you to the Alzheimer Society of B.C. services and support to help you understand the diagnosis and to equip you to better cope with the changes to come.
  - Support for Chinese communitiesWe provide culturally-specific support for Chinese communities in Mandarin, Cantonese and English.
  - Support for South Asian communitiesWe provide culturally-specific support for South Asian communities in Punjabi and English.
  - Dementia resources in B.C.The Alzheimer Society of B.C. is your connection to a variety of resources and information about Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, and to helpful information for family members and caregivers.
- I'm living with dementia
  - I'm living with dementiaOur mission is to support you. The Alzheimer Society can provide you with the information and resources to help you manage your diagnosis, assert your rights, live well with dementia, plan for your future and more.
  - COVID-19 resources for people living with dementiaInformation for people living with dementia during COVID-19.
  - First steps after diagnosisYou've likely been worried and anxious about the changes you're seeing in yourself. Now that you've been diagnosed, know that there are education and resources to support you. Learn the first steps to living well with dementia.
  - Talking about your diagnosisIf you've just been diagnosed with dementia, you may need some time before sharing the news – or you may want to talk about it right away. However your approach, this page can help you with strategies for communication.
  - Managing the changes in your abilitiesDementia impacts your cognitive, emotional, physical and social abilities. Understand how these changes can affect you, and know how you can prepare and adjust accordingly to live well with dementia.
  - Living well with dementiaA diagnosis of dementia does not mean your life is over. This section provides you with strategies to live well with dementia, along with tips and advice from other people who are living with dementia.
  - Planning for your futureAs your dementia progresses, it can become difficult to make choices about your care, finances and other important decisions. However, there are a number of things you can do now to ensure your wishes are communicated, heard and respected.
- I'm caring for a person living with dementia
  - I'm caring for a person living with dementiaUnderstanding dementia and its progression is vital to ensure that both you and the person with dementia can live as well as possible. We have the resources to support you and your care of the person living with dementia.
  - COVID-19 resources for caregiversnformation for people caring for someone living with dementia during COVID-19.
  - What to expect as the person's dementia progressesCaring for someone with dementia can be a great reward but it can be challenging at times. Prepare yourself by knowing what to expect.
  - Looking after yourselfProviding care for someone living with dementia takes a tremendous toll on the physical and emotional health of the primary caregiver, yet many caregivers often don't recognize the warning signs, or deny its effects on their health.
  - Understanding symptomsDementia can affect the personality and behaviour of the person living with the disease. Learn more about understanding and responding to these changes associated with dementia.
  - Providing day-to-day careYou want to make every day the best day possible. Caring for someone with dementia can be a great reward but it can be challenging at times. Prepare yourself with these tips.
  - Ensuring safety and securityDementia can affect a person’s physical abilities and mental acuity. Learn more about protecting yourself or a family member who has dementia.
  - Long distance caregivingToday, family members often live at some distance from each other. When a relative needs increasing support, caring from a distance presents additional and special problems.
  - Long-term careWhen a person living with dementia needs full time support, moving to a long-term care home may be the next step for you and your family.
  - End-of-life careThe needs of people with dementia at the end of life are unique and require special considerations. This section can help you prepare for end of life, make some of the difficult decisions you may face, and cope with the grief and loss you might experience
- I have a friend or family member who lives with dementia
  - I have a friend or family member who lives with dementiaSomeone you know – a parent, a sibling, a friend, a coworker – has dementia. What can you do to help? Learn more about dementia and how you can be dementia-friendly.
  - First steps for families after diagnosisKnowing the following tips may help make life easier and more enjoyable for you and the person living with dementia as well as to prepare for the future.
  - Understanding how your relationship may changeDementia can change many aspects of a relationship, but not the need for love and affection.
  - Communicating with people living with dementiaUnderstand how dementia affects communication, and learn some useful strategies to help communication throughout the progression of the disease.
  - Ways to helpFriends, neighbours and extended family are important sources of support for the family. Perhaps you want to help but don't know where to begin. This page will give you some ideas of how you can offer practical help and show that you care.
  - Managing ambiguous loss and griefThe issue of loss and grief is one of the most significant issues when supporting people living with dementia and their caregivers. Losses and grieving occur in different ways at all stages in the dementia caregiving journey.
  - Making meaningful visitsWhether you are visiting someone with dementia every day or just once in a while, making the most of your time together will mean a more meaningful visit for both of you!
  - Helping children understand dementiaDementia can be a hard concept for younger children to understand.
  - Helping teens understand dementiaThis page can help you give teenagers information they can use to understand what's happening.
  - Holidays and special occasionsFor some of us, holidays or other special life events can be stressful, particularly if you are a caregiver or a person living with dementia. Unfamiliar places, large groups of people, noise and a hectic pace can create a lot of anxiety.
- I'm a healthcare provider
  - I'm a healthcare providerLearn more about dementia and how you can ensure quality person-centred care for people living with the disease.
  - Resources for healthcare providers in B.C.An overview of the resources available for health-care providers, including how to make referrals and guidance on working with people affected by dementia.
  - Providing person-centred careFostering a person-centred approach to care will improve the quality of care for people with dementia and their families.
  - Person-centred care of people with dementia living in care homesThe Alzheimer Society of Canada looked for evidence-based research that shows how to successfully implement person-centred programs and practices in long-term care homes. Here is the result.
  - Diagnosis and screeningTools for healthcare professionals to support dementia screening, assessment, and early diagnosis.
  - Making a referral with First Link®Find out how you can use First Link® to refer a person newly diagnosed with dementia to their local Alzheimer Society, connecting them to help and support in their community.
  - Addressing ambiguous loss and grief as a healthcare providerPractical resources to help healthcare professionals understand loss and grief associated with dementia.
  - Professional developmentA selection of training and e-learning modules as well as useful resources.
  - Other resources and tools for healthcare providersGet resources on driving, pain, dementia research, self-management, long-term care and more.
- I'm a first responder
- I'm a financial professional
- Dementia resources
  - Dementia resourcesLooking for more information on dementia? Get brochures, videos, our recommendations for assistive products and more.
  - National resource libraryBrowse our resource library to learn more about dementia. We cover a wide range of topics and audiences.
  - Information in other languagesThe Alzheimer Society of Canada presents all its information in English and French. The links here provide information about Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias in other languages.
  - Managing through COVID-19
  - Shopping for assistive productsAssistive devices can help individuals perform a task that they might otherwise be unable to do, or simply make the task easier and safer to perform.
  - Video resourcesThese videos can help you understand more about dementia, know what to expect and how to provide dementia care.
- Help and supportWhether you want to learn more about the programs and services we offer, or find dementia-related information specific to your needs, the Alzheimer Society has the education and resources to help you.
Take action
- Volunteer
  - VolunteerLearn about how you can volunteer with us and join a team of dedicated individuals who offer their support in a wide variety of ways to expand and strengthen our ability to provide quality programs, support and services.
  - Join our volunteer teamThe Alzheimer Society of B.C. offers a variety of volunteer opportunities to support and engage with staff, caregivers, people living with dementia and community partners.
  - Volunteer opportunitiesWhether you have been personally affected by dementia or caregiving; are preparing for a career in health care, fundraising, office administration; or are looking for a worthy cause where you can make a difference, our movement needs you.
  - Award-winning volunteersThe Alzheimer Society of B.C. believes in recognizing volunteers who exemplify our core values of compassion, integrity, respect, leadership and teamwork. Each year, we invite staff and volunteers to nominate inspiring volunteers for annual award recognit
- Donate
  - DonateMake a donation online now, or sign up to become a monthly donor. Learn how you can donate by mail, phone or fax.
  - Giving options at a glanceLearn about the many ways supporters can donate to the Alzheimer Society of B.C. and make a difference.
  - Donate in memory and in honourDonate in memory of a relative, friend or colleague who has passed away, or in honour of any special occasion.
  - Join the monthly giving programMonthly donors provide dependable support, so we can plan for the future and help as many people affected by dementia as possible. Learn more about the benefits of monthly giving and how you can sign up.
  - Donate publicly traded securitiesA gift of public securities such as stocks, bonds or mutual funds can be a tax-efficient way to make a gift to the Alzheimer Society of B.C.
  - Create a lasting legacyLeaving a gift in your will is an investment into the future that ensures Alzheimer Society of B.C. services will be available for years to come.
  - Become a corporate or community partnerThrough relationships with local and provincial corporations, public and private foundations, service clubs and health authorities, we’re working together to find solutions and help anyone concerned with or facing dementia.
  - Thank you to our supportersEvery year, thousands of donors support our activities, helping people in B.C. who are affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, and making an important difference to their quality of life. Learn more.
- Fundraise and participate
  - Fundraise and participateJoin or support one of the Alzheimer Society of B.C.'s many fundraising events and help raise money to help British Columbians affected by dementia.
  - Host your own fundraiserOur Anything for Alzheimer’s program offers a way for individuals, businesses, schools, and other organizations to support people affected by dementia by hosting their own events or challenges.
  - 「關愛腦友記」電視籌款日 | Telethon for Alzheimer'sLearn more about the inaugural Telethon for Alzheimer’s to be co-produced by Fairchild Television and the Alzheimer Society of B.C. to raise funds and awareness to support people affected by dementia in the Chinese community.
  - Breakfast to RememberBreakfast to Remember events create awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, and raise funds for the many programs and services offered by the Alzheimer Society of B.C.
  - Forget Me Not Golf TournamentThe Forget Me Not Golf Tournament is a key volunteer-led fundraising event to benefit the Alzheimer Society of B.C.
  - IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer'sWith the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer's, you help transform the way we all live with and challenge dementia. Join us on the last Sunday in May in your community.
  - Vancouver Half Marathon & 5KThe Vancouver Half Marathon & 5K is a great way to get active while doing something meaningful for the community.
  - Climb for Alzheimer's70,000 British Columbians are currently living with dementia. You've helped to show them they’re not alone on their journey by coming together as a province and hiking thousands of kilometres over the summer.
- Change minds
  - Change mindsLearn how you can help us raise awareness and fight stigma against dementia in British Columbia and across Canada.
  - Advocacy in B.C.Everyone has a role in speaking up about dementia. Advocacy is the actions a person can take to create change. Advocacy can be both self-advocacy or provincial and municipal advocacy.
  - Alzheimer's Awareness MonthJanuary is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month – and, as we start a new year, it’s a great time to think about what we want the future to look like for people living with dementia, for caregivers – and ultimately for everyone!
  - The Canadian Charter of Rights for People with DementiaAs a person living with dementia, the Charter can help you assert your rights to live free of stigma, benefit from all of Canada's civic and legal rights, participate in policies that affect you and more.
  - Dementia Journey SurveyThe Alzheimer Society of Canada, in partnership with the College of Family Physicians of Canada, is asking you to participate in this 20-minute survey to help us understand your experience with the care you receive from your family physician.
  - Canada's national dementia strategyOn June 17, 2019, the Government of Canada released the country’s first-ever national dementia strategy: A Dementia Strategy for Canada: Together We Aspire. On this page, learn more about the strategy, what it means for Canadians and why it needs to be fu
- Dementia-friendly communities
  - Dementia-friendly communitiesThe Alzheimer Society of B.C. is supporting people living with dementia and their caregivers by helping to build communities that are more educated and mindful of the condition.
  - Learn about dementia-friendly communitiesThrough the Dementia-Friendly Communities (DFC) initiative, we provide tools and education to help enable local governments, the professional sector, community groups and the general public to become dementia friendly.
  - Dementia-friendly municipalitiesThe Alzheimer Society of B.C. has established a process so that communities can officially be recognized as working towards becoming dementia-friendly over a number of years.
  - Dementia-friendly businessesLearn more about the key role businesses can play in creating safe and inclusive spaces where people living with dementia can remain meaningfully engaged in their communities, plus access our sector-specific guides.
  - Dementia-friendly educationDementia Friends are a core component of building communities that are more dementia friendly throughout our province. Learn more about our dementia-friendly education!
  - Dementia-Friendly CanadaBy the end of the decade, almost one million Canadians will live with dementia. The impact of dementia is and will continue to be felt across all borders, sectors and cultures. We must act and build a dementia-friendly Canada now.
  - ResourcesAccess a variety of available resources to expand your knowledge and learn how to support dementia-friendly communities.
  - Meaningful engagement of people living with dementiaMeaningful engagement is a person-centred approach that encourages and invites people living with dementia to participate in an organization's work with purpose and interest. By practicing meaningful engagement, you can benefit from people living with dem
  - Using person-centred languageThe Alzheimer Society has developed language guidelines for anyone who lives with, supports, or works with a person living with dementia or caregiver. These guidelines can help you promote consistent, respectful language around dementia.
- Share your experiences
- Take actionYou can help people living with dementia – it's easy! Through your Alzheimer Society, learn how to get involved through donating, fundraising, advocating, volunteering and more!
Research
- How we support research
- Dementia-friendly research
- The Alzheimer Society Research Program
  - The Alzheimer Society Research ProgramOn this page, learn more about the Alzheimer Society Research Program, including funding opportunities for researchers, when applications open and highlights from previous ASRP funded research.
  - Latest funding resultsWe're pleased to announce the following 2020 grants and awards for the Alzheimer Society Research Program, funding Canadian researchers in the field of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, in the following areas of research.
  - Funding results historySee the past ASRP-funded projects that advanced dementia research in Canada, sorted by year.
- 10 priorities for dementia research in Canada
- Meet our researchers
  - Meet our researchers
  - Researchers in B.C.Learn more about researchers in B.C. who are dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by dementia.
- Participate in research
- Information for researchers
  - Information for researchersAre you a researcher currently funded by the Alzheimer Society Research Program, or interested in applying? Get all the information and resources you need in this section.
  - Apply to the Alzheimer Society Research ProgramInterested in applying to the latest ASRP Research Competition? On this page, learn what to know before applying, when to apply and get answers to frequently asked questions about submissions, awards and grants.
  - How ASRP funding gets determinedIn 2020, the Alzheimer Society Research Program received over 200 applications. Understand the process that determines which research projects among the final applicants receive funding.
  - Find participants for your studyThrough the Alzheimer Society Research Portal, you can get connected to people living in Canada who want to do their part in advancing dementia research – and want to participate in a study like yours!
  - Report forms for currently funded researchersFill out and submit your progress and final reports, as well as your conference evaluation form.
  - Other ways we support researchFind information about funding, letters of support, research recruitment and other ways the Alzheimer Society of B.C. supports research.
- Reports on dementia
- ResearchResearch moves us forward. Your support will get us closer to life-altering treatments, better care and cures for Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.
What's happening
- News and stories
  - News and stories
  - Dementia in the days of COVID-19Hear stories from caregivers and people living with dementia as a part of our Dementia in the days of COVID-19 series.
  - Raise your voice: Speak up about dementia
  - Dementia in the days of COVID-19: Letters from volunteersWhile our in-person groups have been unable to meet in recent weeks, volunteers have shared what they miss about their role and messages to the people they volunteer with.
- Newsletter
  - NewsletterStay connected to the Alzheimer Society of B.C. and receive newsletters, information and updates for people living with dementia, caregivers, event participants, donors and volunteers.
  - InsightInsight is a quarterly publication written for and by people living with dementia.
  - ConnectionsConnections is a quarterly publication featuring submissions by and resources for caregivers, as well as news, updates and ways to get involved with the Society.
  - First Link® bulletinsFor a listing of local support services and dementia education, find the latest First Link® bulletin for your area from our list.
- Event calendar
- Media centre
- What's happeningGet the latest news about dementia, read the stories of people with lived experience and find out about events happening across Canada and near you.
About us
- About our organization
  - About our organizationLearn more about the Alzheimer Society of B.C., including about our vision, mission and core values.
  - Imagine Canada accreditationLearn more about the Imagine Canada Standards Program and what it means for the Alzheimer Society of B.C.
  - Provincial Leadership GroupsOur initiatives are informed by the voices and lived experience of people living with dementia and caregivers. Learn about how we work with our advisory groups.
  - Privacy statementLearn about our privacy measures and how we use personal information of the people we serve, our donors and other stakeholders.
  - External complaintsWe view concerns as an opportunity to consider our practices and improve our operations. Learn more about our external complaints policy.
  - Become a memberLearn about how to support the work of the Alzheimer Society of B.C by becoming a member.
- Our impact
  - Our impactLearn more about the impact of the Alzheimer Society of B.C.
  - Annual reports and financesRead about the year's accomplishments in our latest Annual Report or view our financial statements. You can also find reports from previous years.
  - Strategic plan, 2022-23How we're building a dementia-friendly B.C.
- Our people
  - Our peopleRead about some of the people working to create a kinder, more inclusive and supportive place for people who are affected by dementia as well as how you can join us as a member of our team.
  - Career opportunitiesJoin our team and support us in our vision of a dementia-friendly B.C. – a kinder, more inclusive and supportive place for people who are affected by dementia.
  - Senior Leadership TeamMeet the members of the Alzheimer Society of B.C.'s senior leadership team.
  - Board of DirectorsThe Alzheimer Society of B.C.'s Board of Directors guides the organization’s efforts to improve service and care, fund and advance research, educate the communities we serve and mobilize support for the disease.
- National statements
- The Alzheimer Society Federation
- About usLearn about the Alzheimer Society of B.C.'s vision and mission, Annual Report, Strategic Plan and role in a national federation of Alzheimer Societies; read about its Board of Directors, senior staff, employment opportunities and how to become a member.

Your society is set to: Alzheimer Society of British Columbia. Change Your Society. Close

Support groups

Dementia can leave those with the disease and their care partners feeling isolated. However, you are not alone. There are other people to share the journey with you. Learn about the Family Caregiver and Early Stage support groups we offer across B.C.

COVID-19 update: Masks are now optional. To learn more about safety protocols for our in-person events, visit: alzbc.org/COVID-safety

Caregiver support groups (in-person and online)

For people caring for someone living with the disease – spouses, family or friends – a caregiver support group offers the chance to:

Exchange information and friendship with others affected by dementia.
Access the most current information provided by the Alzheimer Society of B.C.
Learn and share practical tips for coping with change.
Decrease feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Express feelings and be reassured that these feelings are normal.

Online support groups for caregivers meet monthly for 90 minutes. You have the option to join by video or by phone. Regional and provincial groups are available across the province, including specialized groups for:

Chinese families (Cantonese and Mandarin-speaking options available)
South Asian families (Punjabi and Hindi-speaking)
Adult children
Caregivers of a person living in long-term care
Caregivers of a person living with young onset dementia
Caregivers of a person living with behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD)
Caregivers of a person living with Lewy Body dementia
LGBTQ2S+ caregivers

For more information or to register for a online support group, please call the First Link^® Dementia Helpline at 1-800-936-6033 or see the First Link^® Bulletin for a list of days and times available.

Early-stage support groups for people living with dementia (in-person or online)

We offer two types of groups:

Coffee & chat groups provide an opportunity for people living with early symptoms of dementia to socialize, share experiences, laugh and enjoy the company of others who are living the dementia experience. You are invited to make yourself comfortable, grab a cup of coffee or tea and join us virtually to say ‘hello.’
Early-stage support groups provide a place for people living with early symptoms of dementia to come together with others also living the dementia experience and discuss the impact of the disease, share stories, experiences and learn from one another about how to live well with dementia.

Read more about groups for people living with early symptoms of dementia.

Information and Mutual Aid Model

Our support groups are based on an Information and Mutual Aid model. This means that you can expect to benefit from reliable information provided by Alzheimer Society staff, and from the wisdom and experience of other group members who are also facing the illness.

Read more about the Information and Mutual Aid Model.