Community Education Programs include but are not limited to:

Memory and Aging Program - This program is for anyone interested in learning about memory changes that may occur with age. Discussions include how memory works, memory strengths, and strategies to improve everyday memory performance. It is held in various locations in Huron and Perth Counties throughout the year in 4 Weekly, 2 Hour Sessions. The cost for this course is $25 per participant, which covers the cost of the workbook. Register by calling one of the offices.

Gentle Persuasive Approaches (GPA) in Dementia Care: Supporting Persons with Responsive Behaviours - This is an 8-hour educational program designed for interdisciplinary point-of-care staff across healthcare sectors. This program promotes a person-centred, compassionate approach to care, enabling staff to respond respectfully, and with confidence and skill when providing care. Register by calling one of the offices.

Education Hour - Join us for our free online learning sessions on ZOOM! Alzheimer Society Huron Perth's Public Education Coordinators will cover the topics we are most often asked about - as detailed below. Register at Education Hour Programs - Online | Alzheimer Society of Huron Perth.

• Your Journey of Support Starts Here - A discussion about resources available at the Alzheimer Society Huron Perth for people and families living with dementia in Huron and Perth Counties. Education, Support, and Recreation are all part of living well with dementia.
• Dementia 101 - This session is the starting point in understanding what dementia is, what to expect, and the next steps in your journey.
• Brain Health 101 - Discuss ways to incorporate healthy brain choices into your everyday life including some of the latest research on nutrition and exercise.
• What is MCI? - What is Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and how is it different than dementia?
• Living Safely with Dementia - Discussion about resources available to assist in living safely at home including wayfinding tips, locating devices, and the Project Lifesaver program.
• Ten Warning Signs - This session reviews the early signs of dementia and what distinguishes it from common age-related memory changes.
• Types of Dementia - What is the difference between Alzheimer's disease and dementia? This session is an introduction to the most common types of dementia including Alzheimer's disease, Vascular, Lewy Body, Frontal Temporal, and Mixed Dementia.
• 8 A's of Cognitive Change - Introduces common cognitive changes people with dementia experience. We will describe these changes as a shift in perception - a shift in the way many people with dementia see and navigate the world.
• Communication Tips - This session looks at how communication changes due to dementia can affect day-to-day experiences and offers some starting points to improve connections.

Bereavement Program - This 4-week support/education program is for the general public who have lost a loved one to dementia. Participants will learn about grief and dementia and explore ways of coping and moving forward following the loss. The group offers both opportunities for education and time for discussion. Sessions are held periodically throughout the year in Huron and Perth Counties. Register by calling one of the offices.

Community and Public Education
Are you looking for a speaker for your meeting? Would you like to know more about Dementia Friendly Communities, and/or receive dementia training for your staff in a local business, community organization, retirement, or long-term care home? Dementia-related topics are also appropriate for service clubs, community groups, church groups, and professional groups. Training and topics can be tailored to meet the needs of the group participants. Contact one of the Public Education Coordinators for more information.