It’s amazing what can be accomplished over a cup of coffee.
The Alzheimer’s Society of BC is looking for businesses and organizations to sign up for its annual Coffee Break fundraiser. The purpose of the initiative is two-fold, said Emily Pridham, manager of regional services in Victoria for the Alzheimer’s Society of B.C. “We want to raise public awareness and reduce the stigma that people affected with dementia face,” she said. “Coffee Break also helps fund services in the community. We invite participants to network and encourage people to drop by for a coffee and make a donation. Some organizations make baking by donation available as well.” Participants in the Coffee Break program will be provided with a kit that includes coffee to get them started, added Pridham, who started with the Alzheimer Society of BC seven years ago as a volunteer. Check out coffeebreak.ca, or email coffeebreak@alzheimerbc.org.
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Pridham noted that a frequently asked question is whether dementia and Alzheimer’s are the same condition. “Dementia is a general umbrella term that refers to a number of different brain disorders,” Pridham explained. “Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia.”
The Alzheimer’s Society of BC is also offering Mind in Motion, a series of fitness and social sessions for people with early stages of dementia and their care partner. “Most people attend with a spouse or family friend,” Pridham said. “The program was developed in response to a need for people in the early stage of dementia to stay active and involved in their communities. Minds in Motion helps people connect with others, make new friends and stay active.”
The sessions take place at the Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre on Wednesdays from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on Oct. 10, Nov. 7 and 21, and Dec. 19. The cost is $35 per couple, and you can register at the reception desk, or by calling 250-478-8384. “People often have questions about the program and we’re happy to take calls,” Pridham said. Contact the Victoria resource centre at 250-382-2052.
c.vanreeuwyk@blackpress.ca
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