Webinar Recording: Supporting Individuals and Families Affected by Dementia

As the population of our province ages, we will all be affected by dementia – whether we are friends and family members, neighbours, and people in the work force. Join the Alzheimer Society of B.C. for a foundational conversation about dementia. Learn how to distinguish dementia from normal age-related changes and how symptoms can evolve as dementia progresses. We will discuss the impact of dementia on the individual and the care partner and how you can support a person living with dementia and their family or friend caregiver(s). Also learn how to refer a client to First Link® and the programs and supports available. We can all play a role in making our community more inclusive and accessible for people affected by dementia.

About the Alzheimer Society of B.C.:

The Alzheimer Society of B.C. is a non-profit organization whose vision is a world without Alzheimer’s' disease and other dementias. That world begins with a more dementia-friendly society, where people affected by dementia are acknowledged, supported and included. We are the only province-wide non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and educating people living with dementia, their family and friends, community organizations and health-care providers. Through First Link® dementia support, you can help connect people affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias to support and education at any stage of the journey.

Presenter Bios:

Sana Aziz - Sana is the Provincial Coordinator, Dementia-Friendly Communities at the Alzheimer Society of B.C. Sana works closely with municipalities, community organizations, businesses and service providers to form strategic partnerships to support and educate them in working towards becoming more inclusive of people living with dementia and caregivers. Sana also sits on the Dementia-Friendly Canada working group as the B.C. lead. Sana has a Master of Arts degree in Gerontology from Simon Fraser University.

Susan Prosser - Susan completed her BA in Recreation and Leisure Studies for Special Populations at the University of Alberta. She subsequently worked as a recreation therapist in seniors living and long term care environments, eventually joining the Alzheimer Society of B.C. as a Support & Education Coordinator, providing information, education and support to people living with dementia and their care partners. Susan joined Advocacy & Education in 2022 and is now focused on education for health care providers.

Sarah Eveneshen - Sarah is the Project Manager, Provincial Programs and Services at the Alzheimer Society of B.C. Sarah started at the Society as a support group volunteer almost 10 years ago before moving into a staff role as a Support and Education Coordinator, directly supporting families affected by dementia. Her experience educating and learning from families continues to guide her work supporting the development of new programs, education and resources for families on the dementia journey. Sarah holds a M.A. in Gerontology and a B.A. (Honours) in Health Sciences, both from Simon Fraser University.

Find presentation resources below

Watch Recording Here