Supporting People Affected by Dementia in Their Community

Nova Scotia

On a light teal background, bold white text reads Connection Matters, supporting people affected by dementia in their community. Events across Nova Scotia from September 20-26, 2026. To the right is a photo of a couple embracing and smiling.

Halifax, N.S. – September 17, 2026 – With nearly 18,000 people living with dementia across Nova Scotia, connecting people with the information, services and supports they need is more important than ever. That need is at the heart of the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia’s annual Community Week,  taking place from September 20-26, 2026. This year’s theme is Connection Matters: Supporting People Affected by Dementia in Their Community.

“Community Week brings people together in their own communities to connect and feel supported,” said Connie Van Berkel, Director of Programs and Services at the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia. “We know that community connection can help to reduce the stigma that often surrounds dementia. By offering a welcoming space where people can learn more about living well with dementia, we hope that people feel empowered to navigate living well with the disease.”

During Community Week, people come together to learn about dementia-related topics and local service providers. It is an opportunity for people to meet others with similar experiences and ask questions in a supportive environment.

This year, the Society will play host to events in seven communities across Nova Scotia: 
• New Waterford: Sunday, September 20, 2026, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the New Waterford Community Wellness Centre
• Dartmouth: Monday, September 21, 2026, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the East Dartmouth Community Centre
• St. Andrews: Tuesday, September 22, 2026, 12:30 to 3:00 p.m. at Saint Andrew’s CommunityCentre
• Yarmouth: Tuesday, September 22, 2026, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Nova Scotia Community College Burridge Campus
• Bridgewater: Wednesday, September 23, 2026, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Bridgewater Firehall
• Elmsdale: Wednesday, September 23, 2026, 1:30 to 4:00 p.m. at Riverview United Church
• Hantsport: Thursday, September 24, 2026, 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Hantsport Baptist Church Wellwood Community Hall

The events are free and open to people living with dementia, care partners, family, friends, healthcare providers, and anyone who wants to learn more about dementia and make new connections.

Each event is tailored for the local community and includes local speakers, organizations, educational presentations, and community resources. Each event will also include a presentation from the Alzheimer Society that highlights our services and program offerings.

“We see the positive impact that connection has on our clients through our programs for both care partners and people living with dementia,” said Beth Bennett, Manager of Community Development at the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia. “It’s important for people to know what local resources are available in their community. We want Nova Scotians affected by dementia to know that support is available to them when they need it, and that they are not alone.”

The Society recognizes the challenges that come with accessing supports for those living in rural communities. Nova Scotians are encouraged to reach out for support and to seek program offerings in their community or virtually. Call the Dementia Helpline toll-free at 1-800-611-6345.

Event details and registration can be found here.