INFORMATION SESSIONS WERE “A LIFE-SAVER”

I worked in long-term care for years before my dad developed Alzheimer’s disease, and I thought I knew what to expect. When he was diagnosed, I was committed to support him in any way I could, but as his condition changed, I faced new challenges I hadn’t anticipated. When he started having trouble communicating and finding his way, I had to find innovative solutions to ensure his independence without risking his safety or others’.

As the issues mounted, I reached out to the First Link team at the Alzheimer Society of Canada. They told me that my local Alzheimer Society hosted sessions about care, communication, legal and financial resources. I walked into the first session assuming that I knew a lot but quickly discovered I had plenty to learn!

Sessions covered communication tips, strategies for hygiene, dressing and more, how the law works and how to make decisions about care and finances.

The information prepared me for many decisions I’d eventually have to make, and that relieved a lot of my stress. I was able to support my dad in doing the things he enjoyed with the people who loved him until his last days. I’m so grateful to the Alzheimer Society for providing the right support and information when and how I needed it.