Regional programming - North and Central Vancouver Island
Explore the most recent in-person programs and services in North and Central Vancouver Island.
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Below, you'll find information about in-person programs and support services available to people in North and Central Vancouver Island 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.
Family caregiver series | An education series for family members who are caring for a person living with dementia that covers understanding dementia, communication and behaviour, as well as planning for the future and self-care for caregivers. For caregivers.
Parksville: Five Wednesdays, April 16 to May 7 from 10 a.m. to noon
What is dementia | Learn how dementia affects an individual’s brain and behaviour. General topics include different types of dementia, stages and progression and dispelling some common myths. For caregivers and people living with dementia.
Nanaimo: Tuesday, April 29 from 1 to 3 p.m.
Shaping the journey | Explore the journey ahead in a positive, informative and supportive environment with others who are going through similar experiences. Topics include: the brain and dementia, strategies for coping with changes, maximizing quality of life and planning for the future. For caregivers and people living with dementia.
Nanaimo: Five Wednesdays, April 30 to May 28 from 2 to 4 p.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.
Parksville: Estuary Place, 161 Shelly Road
Six Tuesdays, April 15 - May 20 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. or 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Registration: Please call the Minds in Motion® Coordinator at 778-746-2017.
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.
Courtenay: Lower Native Sons Hall, 360 Cliffe Avenue
Six Wednesdays, April 16 - May 21 from 1 - 2:30 p.m.
Cost: $60 per pair for six sessions.
Registration: Register through Courtenay Rec at 250-338-1000.
Nanaimo: Beban Park Social Center, 2300 Bowen Road
Five Thursdays, April 17 – May 22 from 10 - 11:30 a.m. or 1 - 2:30 p.m.
Cost: $48 per pair for five sessions.
Registration: Register through Nanaimo Rec at 250-756-5200.
*No class on May 1
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 Vancouver Island in-person caregiver support group
Open to anyone on Vancouver Island 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.
Parksville: Every 2nd Tuesday from 1 - 2:30 p.m.
Nanaimo: Every 3rd Tuesday, 10:30 a.m. to noon
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.
Nanaimo: 2nd and 4th Tuesday, 10:30 a.m. to noon
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).