Regional programming - North and Central Okanagan
Explore the most recent in-person programs and services in North and Central Okanagan.
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Below, you'll find information about in-person programs and support services available to people in North and Central Okanagan who are living with dementia or caring for someone who is.
We also offer online programs for people who prefer to access support and education from home, which you can learn about here.
To register call our First Link® Dementia Helpline unless otherwise noted:
- English: 1-800-936-6033 (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.)
- Cantonese and Mandarin: 1-833-674-5007 (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
- Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu: 1-833-674-5003 (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Education
Our in-person education programs empower people living with dementia, along with their families and friends, through knowledge and support. Unless otherwise noted, location details are provided upon registration. You can also learn more about our dementia education.
January 2026
Understanding Behaviour Changes | Explore various changes in behaviours caused by dementia and learn practical strategies for responding in supportive ways. For caregivers.
Armstrong: Monday, January 12 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Navigating the Dementia Journey | Explore the journey ahead with others who are going through similar experiences. Topics include: the brain and dementia, how to respond to the diagnosis, practical strategies to live well and how to access resources, so that people affected by dementia have the confidence to navigate the journey ahead. For caregivers and people living with dementia.
Kelowna: Tuesday, January 13 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Accessing dementia services and support | Navigating health-care systems and looking for support services can be overwhelming. Learn about community supports – including home care, respite and adult day programs – as well as how to address challenges in accessing them. For caregivers.
Kelowna: Tuesday, January 20 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Understanding Behaviour Changes | Explore various changes in behaviours caused by dementia and learn practical strategies for responding in supportive ways. For caregivers.
Kelowna: Thursday, January 29 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
February 2026
Adjusting to Long Term care and Working with the Care Team | Learn about the options for accessing long-term care, including eligibility requirements. We will also discuss factors to consider when planning a move and provide tips for easing the transition. Learn how to adjust your caregiving role and work effectively with the care team to ensure the person receives the care they need and you also feel supported. For caregivers.
Kelowna: Tuesday, February 3 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Understanding and adapting to communication changes along the dementia journey | A person’s ability to communicate will change over the course of the dementia journey. Learn how different types of dementia affect communication and discuss strategies for adapting to and coping with these changes. For caregivers.
Kelowna: Tuesday, February 17 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Navigating the dementia journey | Explore the journey ahead with others who are going through similar experiences. Topics include: the brain and dementia, how to respond to the diagnosis, practical strategies to live well and how to access resources, so that people affected by dementia have the confidence to navigate the journey ahead. For caregivers and people living with dementia.
Malakwa: Thursday, February 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Considering the transition to Long term Care | Learn about the options for accessing long-term care, including eligibility requirements. We will also discuss factors to consider when planning a move and provide tips for easing the transition. For caregivers.
Salmon Arm: Monday, February 23
Equip yourself: Knowledge and skills to help get the support you need | Gain the skills and knowledge you need to advocate for yourself and your family member along the dementia journey, including responding to common challenges, getting a diagnosis and accessing home support. For caregivers and people living with dementia.
Kelowna: Tuesday, February 17 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Coffee and Chat
We offer a social program to help caregivers and people living with dementia meet new people, engage in social activities and have fun. Learn more about the program.
No available programming.
Minds in Motion®
Discover our in-person fitness and social program tailored for people with early-stage dementia to attend with a care partner, promoting wellness and connection. Learn more about the program.
Vernon: Vernon Recreation Centre, 3310 37 Avenue
Five Tuesdays, January 6 – February 3 from 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Five Tuesdays, February 10 – March 5 from 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Cost: Pricing available at registration.
Registration: Register online at www.gvrec.ca or in person at the recreation centre.
Enderby: Enderby Drill Hall, 208 George Street
Six Thursdays, January 29 – March 5 from 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Six Thursdays, April 2 – May 7 from 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Cost: $60 per pair (GST included)
Registration: Register with Enderby & District Recreation Services, online at www.enderbyrecreation.com
Support Groups
Dementia can leave people affected by dementia feeling isolated, but you don’t have to face it alone! Join our in-person support groups and connect with a community that understands you. Below are all support groups in your area. Learn more about our support groups.
North & Central Okanagan in-person caregiver support group
Open to anyone in the North & Central Okanagan in-person caregiver support group who is currently caring for a person living with dementia. Our family caregiver support groups offer a safe place to learn about dementia and community resources. Connect with other family members on the dementia journey.
Vernon: For more information, please call the First Link® Dementia Helpline at 1-800-936-6033.
Kelowna: For more information, please call the First Link® Dementia Helpline at 1-800-936-6033.
Salmon Arm: 2nd Monday of the month, 10 a.m. to noon
Enderby: 1st Thursday of the month, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
In-person early-stage support group
Open to people living with early symptoms of dementia to discuss the impact of the disease, share stories, experiences and learn from one another about how to live well with dementia.
Kelowna: For more information, please call the First Link® Dementia Helpline at 1-800-936-6033.
Vernon: 3rd Tuesday of the month, 10 to 11 a.m.
For our online programming, click here.
If you need dementia support, please call the First Link® Dementia Helpline at 1-800-936-6033 (English), 1-833-674-5007 (Cantonese and Mandarin) or 1-833-674-5003 (Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu).