Alzheimer's Awareness Month

January 2024 is Alzheimer's Awareness Month and we’re highlighting how British Columbians affected by dementia can continue to live full and meaningful lives, helping those around them find joy, peace and happiness today.

AAM 2024 hero image

Our community has taught us that despite the difficulties of living with dementia, it can inspire a newfound appreciation for the present like never before. In January 2024, the Alzheimer Society of B.C. is sharing information about our resources and programs to help people living with the disease and their caregivers to lead fulfilling lives with the support of their community. 

learn to live well

The Alzheimer Society of B.C. is here for you at all stages of the journey providing you with information, support services and community programs. Our First Link® Dementia Helpline is the best place to start, no matter where you are on your journey. Our staff is ready to provide you with information and services you need to help you live well.  

SUPPORT ACROSS B.C. 

Find support near you. 

THE FIRST STEP 

We're here to help anyone facing the challenges of dementia. 

DIVERSE LANGUAGES 

Get support in English, Cantonese and Mandarin, Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu  

GET A REFERRAL 

First Link® referrals help physicians and other health-care providers connect you to our services 

WE HOST SUPPORT GROUPS 

Join a support group to suit your needs. 

WE CAN HELP YOU STAY CONNECTED 

Get support you need when you need it. 

Community stories

During January 2024, people across B.C. are sharing their experiences on how they live well with dementia – whether they’re living with the disease themselves or caring for someone who is. Read their stories: 

2024 community stories

Art (West Kootenay region) 

Brenda (Vancouver) 

Don (Yukon) 

Jean (Victoria)

Mardi (New Westminster) 

Mollie (White Rock) 

Roberta (Richmond) 

2023 community stories  

Granville (Sinclair Mills) 

Ian (Surrey) 

Jana (Cranbrook) 

Katie (Chilliwack) 

Lester & Cindy (Burnaby) 

Ms. Wong (Richmond) 

Mike (Vancouver) 

Taylor (Chilliwack) 

January events

Throughout January 2024, we are offering opportunities for the community to learn about dementia and participate in conversations that matter to people affected by dementia - whether living with the disease or caregiving for someone who is.  

  • Living life to the fullest with Jim Mann (webinar): Jim Mann, an advocate living with dementia, will moderate a panel discussion on living life to the fullest on the dementia journey. (Wednesday, January 10, 2 – 3:30 p.m.) | Register online 
  • Making activities dementia friendly (virtual workshop): Remaining active and meaningfully engaged is vital for people living with dementia to live well. Discuss how you can adapt different kinds of activities to be inclusive of the person living with the disease to help improve quality of life and enjoy your time together. For caregivers and people living with dementia (Thursday, January 11, 6:30 – 8 p.m.) | Register online 
  • The power of effective personal planning with guest Emily Clough (webinar): Join Emily Clough, a Managing Partner with Clark Wilson LLP who is a sought-after voice, particularly for clients with incapacity issues and to protect the rights of vulnerable adults. Emily will share her expertise and tips, including how personal planning documents can be important to assist in accessing services and home care.   (Wednesday, January 17, 2 – 3:30 p.m.) | Register online 
  • Finding a supportive community with Jana Schulz (webinar): Jana Schulz, a caregiver and registered social worker, will lead a panel discussion on the importance of finding a supportive community within our programs and services. (Wednesday, January 24, 2 – 3:30 p.m.) | Register online 
  • Mapping your journey: Stages and progression of dementia(virtual workshop): While each dementia journey is unique, there are some signposts to the stages of dementia. Learn about what to expect as the disease progresses and how you can manage changes as they happen. For caregivers and people living with dementia (Thursday, January 25, 10 – 11:30 a.m.) | Register online 
  • An introduction to brain health (webinar): It’s never too late to make changes for a healthier brain. Learn how to maintain or improve your brain health by exploring topics including natural aging changes, dementia, risk reduction, memory, brain training and more. (Wednesday, January 31, 2 – 3:30 p.m.) | Register online