Connection Matters: Supporting people affected by dementia in Cape Breton
Connection Matters, an afternoon of learning, conversation and community, will take place in New Waterford on Sept. 20.
For people affected by dementia, connection can make a huge difference. Having somewhere to ask questions, meet others who understand, and learn about available support can help people feel less isolated and more connected to their community.
That is the idea behind Connection Matters, an afternoon of learning, conversation and community taking place in New Waterford this September.
Hosted by the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia, the event will bring together people living with dementia, family members and care partners, community members, and local service providers and organizations that support people living with dementia throughout Cape Breton.
The event takes place on Sept. 20 at the New Waterford Community Wellness Centre. Doors open at 1 p.m., with presentations beginning at 2 p.m. This allows participants to explore exhibits and speak directly with local service providers and organizations dedicated to supporting people affected by dementia.
This year, exhibitors include the CBRM Seniors Safety Navigator, Service Canada, ElderDog Cape Breton, Cape Breton University’s Healthy Aging Program and others.
“I love the theme – providing supports and empowering the community is such an important piece of the journey for patients and caregivers. I appreciate the opportunity to share information about the grief education and supports available throughout the province,” said exhibitor Melissa MacDonald, a community grief facilitator with the Nova Scotia Hospice Palliative Care Association.
The event features educational presentations from local speakers, including Colleen Mackenzie of Dying With Dignity Canada, and Danny MacDonald, a registered nurse at the Geriatric Medicine and Memory Disability Clinic in Sydney.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to speak about advance care planning with the community,” said Mackenzie. “My work with Dying With Dignity Canada is all about helping people understand how they can maintain their autonomy throughout all stages of life. I’m always excited to connect with the community on these important topics and help others plan for their health care in the future.”
There will also be a presentation on the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia, outlining the education, programs, and other supports available to people navigating dementia and their care providers.
Connection Matters is part of the society’s Community Week events that bring dementia education and local supports directly to communities across Nova Scotia. By creating safe spaces for conversation and learning, we hope to make it easier for individuals and families to access the information, resources and support they need at every stage of the dementia journey.
This free event is open to the public, but pre-registration is recommended as space is limited.
For registration details and more information about Community Week events taking place across Nova Scotia, visit www.alzheimer.ca/ns/communityweek.
If you are unable to attend but would like information, resources or support, our toll-free Dementia Helpline is available at 1-800-611-6345. A knowledgeable member of our team can answer your questions and help connect you with available resources and services.
We hope you’ll join us in New Waterford for an afternoon of learning, conversation and community.