Program a way for those with dementia and their care person to get out and have fun; Volunteers needed
The Alzheimer Society of Manitoba’s Minds in Motion program is starting up again for its spring session and the usually packed program has a few spots left for people with dementia and their care partners.
“The Minds in Motion program is an eight-week program for individuals with mild to moderate dementia, and a partner. It could be a spouse, an adult child, another family member, or a friend and it is a time where we can come together and connect with others who just get it and who are on the same path,” said Samantha Holland, first link regional team lead for the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba.
The program varies from week to week but starts with a chair fitness class to get everyone warmed up. Then there is a coffee break and time to chat together. After socializing for a bit, the larger group breaks into smaller groups to do an activity. Sometimes the activities are things like word puzzles or memory games and sometimes there are more traditional games like bocce and Jenga.
Holland says that all components of the program help people with dementia and their care partners continue to live well and be involved in the community. She emphasized that the program isn’t just for the people with dementia but creates space for both individuals.
“We’ve had people participate, really, until they transition to personal care. For example, I’ve had participants who have been in the program since I started five years ago, and they’re still coming back time after time. Why they come back is the connections that they form with others and the time that they just get to come and have fun in their community without thinking about dementia. We’re all here to connect, reminisce, and chat, and just feel that sense of normalcy,” said Holland.
This program is a space that is designed to be dementia friendly.
“People that might not quite understand what the individual or the couple is going through. And there may be a little bit of judgment or perceived judgment. So, we want to create that space where people can come and interact with those who understand what they’re going through. We have volunteers in the program who, when your person is having a hard day, can step in and give you that time to just hang out with other care partners. You don’t have to worry about what’s going on with your [person. We’re just that] safe space to get away for a couple of hours every week and really let your hair down,” said Holland.
The program is going to start on April 3 and run until May 22 at the Gordon Howard Centre. Participants will be able to enjoy the two-hour sessions from 1 to 3 p.m. every Wednesday.
Holland says even if you don’t know if it’s for you and your partner it’s worth giving a shot.
“We’ve had many couples that have been hesitant or maybe don’t know what to expect. We would always encourage people to register, and see what they think of it the first week. If it’s not for them, that’s fair. But I think they’ll see that once they walk into the door, It’s a safe space with friendly faces. There’s no judgment and there’s always laughter to be had. So really, regardless of whether you like the activities or not, it is just a fun afternoon out of the house,” she said.
To sign up, residents can call the Gordon Howard Centre at 204-785-2092 or stop by during their open hours to sign up with the front desk staff. The program is $65 for both people.
Volunteers to help with the program are also needed.
“If there are individuals that have a general understanding of dementia, and who are passionate about helping participants enjoy a quality program, I would encourage them to reach out to me directly,” said Holland.
Holland can be reached at 204-268-4752 or by email at sholland@alzheimer.mb.ca. You can learn more about programs hosted by the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba online at alzheimer.mb.ca.
