Remembering Wiarton Event (Photo provided by Brad Biggs)
The Bruce Peninsula Hospice took part in an initiative this past week to offer a dementia-inclusive event.
On Oct. 7, with support from community partners and local businesses, the Remembering Wiarton event offered a safe and welcoming time for those living with memory loss or dementia, along with their families and caregivers.
It included dementia-inclusive signage and decorations, trained volunteers, as well as activities encouraging socialization and community support.
Hospice Executive Director Nancy Forgrave says, “This event showed what’s possible when businesses and community members come together to support inclusion and reduce stigma.”
The event is part of the Compassionate Dementia Inclusive Communities project, which is funded by Health Canada and developed from research at the University of British Columbia – Okanagan.
The project was led locally by Bruce Peninsula Hospice in partnership with the Alzheimer Society of Grey-Bruce and Home and Community Support Services Grey-Bruce.
Alzheimer Society Grey-Bruce Executive Director Julie Johnston says, “When we take time to learn about memory loss and dementia and make small, thoughtful changes – like slowing down, offering a kind word, or adjusting our environment – we help families living with dementia stay active and engaged.”