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Living Well with Demena When we think about demena, our thoughts oſten are of someone experiencing the later symptoms of the disease. In actual fact, with an early diagnosis, people with demena connue to live well in their communies, doing the things they have always enjoyed. On April 28, The Alzheimer Society of Nova Scoa provided an opportunity for those living with demena and their caregivers to come together and talk about the possibilies of living well. Our 2nd Annual Early Stage Forum, Early Diagnosis and Living Well, had 60 people gather in the Bethune Ballroom to learn and share their experience of living with demena. The forum included firsthand accounts from people across Canada experiencing demena, as well as a caregiver’s account of supporng her husband. Their stories were frank, moving, honest and upliſting. Families in the room were also able to share their own experiences with their tables and with the larger group. Parcipants walked away from the experience with an increased knowledge about how the disease affects the family and individual, as well as resources that are available for and created by people with demena. Many also came away with a commitment to doing something differently - spreading the word about demena to more people, being more understanding and paent, geng more family members involved, and focusing more on living well with the diagnosis. If you would like to learn more about the programs and resources available for persons with demena, please call our Alzheimer InfoLine at 1-800-611-6345, or e-mail [email protected] The Alzheimer Society of Nova Scoa would also like to take the opportunity to thank our partners for the Early Stage Forum, Senior’s Health, The Geriatric Medicine Research Unit and the Dugger and Marion McNeil fund, for supporng this educaonal opportunity In The Loop Spring 2012

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Fall 20

Living Well with Dementia

When we think about dementia, our thoughts often are of someone experiencing the later symptoms of the disease. In actual fact, with an early diagnosis, people with dementia continue to live well in their communities, doing the things they have always enjoyed.

On April 28, The Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia provided an opportunity for those living with dementia and their caregivers to come together and talk about the possibilities of living well. Our 2nd Annual Early Stage Forum, Early Diagnosis and Living Well, had 60 people gather in the Bethune Ballroom to learn and share their experience of living with dementia.

The forum included firsthand accounts from people across Canada experiencing dementia, as well as a caregiver’s account of supporting her husband. Their stories were frank, moving, honest and uplifting. Families in the room were also able to share their own experiences with their tables and with the larger group.

Participants walked away from the experience with an increased knowledge about how the disease affects the family and individual, as well as resources that are available for and created by people with dementia. Many also came away with a commitment to doing something differently - spreading the word about dementia to more people, being more understanding and patient, getting more family members involved, and focusing more on living well with the diagnosis.

If you would like to learn more about the programs and resources available for persons with dementia, please call our Alzheimer InfoLine at 1-800-611-6345, or e-mail [email protected]

The Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia would also like to take the opportunity to thank our partners for the Early Stage Forum, Senior’s Health, The Geriatric Medicine Research Unit and the Dugger and Marion McNeil fund, for supporting this educational opportunity

In The LoopSpring 2012

Spring 2012In the Loop

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Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia (ASNS) April 2012

Being in our first year, we were anxious about

starting our fieldwork placement. We did not

know what to expect or what would be expected

of us. Upon meeting our supervisor and the rest of

the ASNS staff, the anxiety quickly dissipated.

Everyone was very friendly and accommodating.

We could immediately tell that we were among

exceptional and self-giving individuals. Neither of

us worked in a non-profit organization before so

this was an excellent chance for us to become

involved in an area of practice that was

completely novel to us. We believed that this

maximized our learning experience and allowed

for optimal growth.

Taking part in the Family Caregiver Education

Series not only provided us with an in-depth

knowledge base of Alzheimer’s disease and other

dementias, it also allowed us to hear first hand

some of the difficulties family caregivers face. For

us occupational therapy students, it was very

valuable to hear how dementia had altered the

Our first steps into OT practice. A rewarding experience.

“We were very

fortunate that we

had the

opportunity to

work at the ASNS.

We learned so

much and met a

lot of wonderful people.”

- Laura & Patricia

Special thanks to:

Director of Programs and Services of ASNS. Also our supervisor for fieldwork placement.

Linda Bird

Coordinator, Information Services and Research Liaison of ASNS. Presenter of 3 out of the 6 sessions for the Family Caregiver Education Series.

Wenda MacDonald

Coordinator, Education and Support of ASNS. Presenter of 3 out of the 6 sessions for the Family Caregiver Education Series.

Kara Gouthro-Murgatroyd

OCCU 5111 Fieldwork Supervisor and our tutor for the supplemental classes.

Carmel O’ Keefe

And the staff of the ASNS and the Dalhousie School of OT!

daily activities of those afflicted by it as well as their

caregivers. Learning about the changes that they

made throughout its progression enlightened us as

to how much dementia impacts our society.

Assisting in the planning of Healthy Brain Way, an

interactive set-up promoting brain health, was also a

great learning opportunity. Through this, we were

able to educate ourselves in the various ways to

engage individuals in activities that would stimulate

their minds. We have learned that there were many

ways to keep our minds active and healthy, which in

turn would allow people to continue participating in

meaningful activities as they age.

The time spent in this placement was such a

rewarding experience. We were very fortunate that

we had the opportunity to work at the ASNS. We

learned so much and met a lot of wonderful people.

What we have learned here would truly help us

become better occupational therapists in the future.

Seeing the Alzheimer Society through our eyes: The experience and the lessons we have learned.

By Patricia Ocampo and Laura Gillies

Our own space for us to do some work!

From Our OT Students

Spring 2012In the Loop

“We were sitting there at my place staring at the duck,” explains Cheryl Cook, Research Associate for Geriatric Medicine Research, “and all of a sudden one of my colleagues screamed, “Princess Leia!”

It was that idea that inspired their work of art.

“After a trip to the craft store we got down to business,” says Cheryl. “We knew our duck would be participating in the Very Important Duck (VID) Race at the Duck Derby so we came up with a strategy and a science behind the duckorating.”

The team purposely put Leia’s hair up in buns not only so people would recognize her but also so the weight of the wet hair wouldn’t drag her down.

“It’s aqua duckynamics,” laughs Cheryl.

Their strategy worked! Princess Leia along with Jabba the Hutt swam fast in the Harbour overtaking many duckorated ducks in the VID Race, including the Duck of Cambridge and his bride, Kate Middleton. Although Jabba didn’t make it out of the race alive (which is probably a good thing since he enslaved Princess Leia), the Princess Duck did.

Geriatric Medicine Research not only won bragging rights, they get to keep the coveted duck cup for the year! The cup is proudly on display in the front window of Dr. Ken Rockwood’s office at the Research Unit so Cheryl and anyone else that goes in the office can admire it.

VIDs are not your average rubber duck. These shade-wearing ducks are purchased by individuals and companies for $250 or $500 as part of the Alzheimer Duck Derby in support of the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia.

The VIDs are then duckorated by staff and put on display to be judged at the Best Dressed Quacker Contest. At the 2012

Duck Derby, the winner of the Best Dressed Quacker Contest will be announced. Then, all of the VIDs will participate in their very own race on September 22 in front of Bishop’s Landing on the Halifax Waterfront.

If you’re thinking of getting involved in the Alzheimer Duck

Derby by purchasing a VID, Cheryl encourages you to do so.

“First of all, it’s an opportunity to support thousands of families living with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias in Nova Scotia,” Cheryl explains. “Secondly, when else are you going to have the opportunity to paint a gold bikini on a duck? Plus, you get to take a trip to the craft store, get creative with your staff and have fun.”

Cheryl and her team definitely plan on supporting the Society by participating in the Duck Derby again this year, “We believe in the cause and we want to win again!”

For more information or to purchase your Very Important Duck, please contact Beth Jackson, Alzheimer Duck Derby Coordinator, at (902) 422-7961 ext. 228 or email [email protected], or visit our website: www.alzheimerduckderby.ca

Princess Leia Wins the Duck Cup !

Key “Duck” Dates to Remember

July 1, 2012 Duck adoptions begin!

August 31- September 2, 2012Best Dressed Quacker Contest

at Mic Mac Mall

September 22, 2012 Alzheimer Duck Derby

Hali Derby and his friends will be participating in

many community events and parades this summer. Don’t

miss a beak! Keep up to date on our schedule of events and

all of the duck news.

Follow Hali on Twitter

Find Hali on Facebook

Spring 2012In the Loop

I Remember Better When I Paint is a 2009 feature length international documentary film about the positive impact of art and other creative therapies in people with Alzheimer’s disease, and how these approaches can change the way the disease is viewed by society. The film shows how patients’ still-vibrant imaginations are strengthened through therapeutic art. This film has been released as part of a DVD package which includes the documentary as well as a series of short supplemental films that further highlight special programs and flesh out the how-tos of organizing an outing, a creative workshop or recreating social bonds between people with Alzheimer’s and their families. (DVD. approx 106 min.) (adapted from the cover)

Bathing Without a Battle (2008). Edited by Ann Louise Barrick et al. This new edition of Bathing Without a Battle presents an individualized, problem-solving approach to bathing and personal care of individuals with dementia. On the basis of extensive original research and clinical experience, the editors have developed strategies and techniques that work in both institutional and home settings. Their approach is also appropriate for caregiving activities other than bathing, such as morning and evening care, and for frail elders not suffering from dementia. (adapted from the cover)

A Caregiver’s Guide to Lewy Body Dementia (2011) by Helen Buell Whitworth and James Whitworth. Although Lewy body dementia is the second leading cause of degenerative dementia in the elderly, it is not well known or understood and is often confused with Alzheimer’s of Parkinson’s disease. This is the first book to present a thorough picture of what Lewy body dementia really is. Written in everyday language, and filled with personal examples that connect to the readers’ own experiences, it includes quick facts and caregiving tips for easy reference, a comprehensive resource guide, glossary, and a list of acronyms. This is the ideal resource for caregivers, family members, and friends seeking to understand Lewy body dementia. (adapted from the cover) (Also available through your Nova Scotia Public Library)

Living with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (2011) edited by Sylvia Davidson. As the number of persons being diagnosed with dementia continues to rise, there is a growing need for skilled assessment, careful planning and linking with supports. This practical aims to increase our appreciation of the changes associated with dementia and provide a wide range of resources to help health professionals and informal caregivers. Major topic areas include Understanding the Illness, The Occupational Therapy Role and Supporting the Caregiver. There is focused attention on theory and assessment with emphasis on functional performance. Special topics covered include driving and dementia, falls and the use of restraints, highlights of specific approaches to dementia programming and an in-depth examination of ethics and dementia care. (adapted from the cover)

New at the Handrahan Resource Centre

Spring 2012In the Loop

New at the Handrahan Resource Centre (continued)

The Forgetting – A Portrait of Alzheimer’s is now available at the Handrahan on DVD, in addition to our VHS version. This 2003 classic documentary weaves together the intense real-world experiences of Alzheimer’s patients and caregivers, the history and biology of Alzheimer’s and the ongoing struggle to end the disease. David Hyde Pierce hosts a half-hour follow-up program with experts providing practical advice on coping with Alzheimer’s disease. At this critical time in our struggle with Alzheimer’s, The Forgetting offers insight and context, help and hope. The DVD contains special features including and interviews with David Shenk, author of The Forgetting – Alzheimer’s: Portrait of and Epidemic and Elizabeth Arledge, filmmaker. (adapted from the cover)(DVD Approx 90 min).

What if It’s Not Alzheimer’s (2008) by Lisa Radin and Gary Radin. This book is the first comprehensive guide dealing with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), one of the largest groups of non-Alzheimer’s dementias. Beginning with a focus on the medical facts, the book explores FTD as an illness distinct from Alzheimer’s disease. Also considered are care issues and practices, socialisation, adapting the home environment, behavioural issues, possible drug and non-drug treatment options and caregiver resources. This newly revised edition provides the most current medical information available, a better understanding of the different classifications of FTD, and more clarity regarding the role of genetics. The wealth of information offered in these pages will help both healthcare professionals and caregivers of someone suffering from frontotemporal dementia. (adapted from the cover)(Also available at your Nova Scotia Public Library)

Dementia and Social Inclusion - Marginalized Groups and Marginalized areas of Research, Care and Practice (2004) Edited by Anthea Innes et al. Examining important issues in dementia research and care that are often neglected or marginalized, the contributors to this book provide fresh perspectives on current practice. The contributors address a broad spectrum of issues including the sexuality of people with dementia, communication and risk taking, people with dementia from minority ethnic groups, faecal incontinence and dementia care and practice in rural communities. Taking an in-depth look at research and service development, this book makes essential reading for practitioners, researchers and students working in the field of dementia care. (adapted from the cover)

What My Grandma Means to Say (2010) by JC Sulzenko. A sensitive story that gives children and families a unique opportunity to explore the difficult subject of dementia at a safe distance from what may be happening to someone they know and about whom they care. Eleven year old Jake shares his story as he watches his grandma change from awesome traveler, bird watcher, and brownie-baker to someone who doesn’t remember his name or where she lives. Throughout the book Jake learns how to support his grandma, and readers may be guided to find their own

strengths and strategies while handling similar situations. The book also provides answers to FAQs as well as sources for additional information. (adapted from the cover). This book and accompanying discussion guide were generously donated by the author.

Spring 2012In the Loop

Tips from the Alzheimer InfoLine

Thank You for Walking with a Purpose On May 6, over 400 participants in Halifax and Sydney came together to walk their respective city’s boardwalks.

You posted pictures of loved ones who weren’t able to walk with you;

You honoured them by sharing their - your - story with your friends and donors. We saw you in your creative, homemade shirts to show

solidarity between your family, friends and organization.We laughed at Brain Healthy Way, smiled at the Photo Stop and raised awareness as we took to the city streets.

Thank you for joining us.

Thank you for participating in Walk for Memories over the past few months, getting pledges and A-Team members; holding fundraisers and creating online goals and pages.

On May 6, YOU raised more than $100,000; YOU raised awareness, spirits and hope. THANK YOU.

Our Alzheimer InfoLine responds to a variety of questions and concerns from people with dementia, their partners in care, family members, and health care providers. In the last issue of In the Loop, we looked at how to get a diagnosis. In this issue we’ll look at another topic that we often discuss with callers to the InfoLine – summer vacations and planning ahead for travelling. The following article appeared in a previous issue of in In the Loop, but we thought it was worth reprinting again.

No two people with dementia or memory loss are alike. Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias are progressive illnesses. For these and other reasons the tips and strategies mentioned below may or may not be appropriate or of value for any given situation. The information below has been adapted from materials from the Alzheimer Society of Canada, Alzheimer’s Australia and the Duke Aging Center Family Support Program.

With summer finally here many of us are looking forward to vacations, a little time to kick back and relax, visits with family and friends, and perhaps spending some time at the cottage. Some of us travel, going to a favourite vacation spot or seeking out a new adventure. With a little advanced planning and a few adjustments, many people with memory loss and early-stage dementia, along with family caregivers can enjoy some of these rights of

summer too. You may want to try some of the tips below.

• Be flexible.

• As a caregiver, be prepared to do everything for two. Be responsible for important documents, medications, money and credit cards.

• Consider a pre-booked tour. A group tour gives the responsibility and stress of planning to somebody else. It may give you more time to actually relax and enjoy. Consider letting the tour guide know that you or your travel companion has memory loss or dementia.

• Pack a favourite blanket, picture or other item that may bring familiarity to a new place.

• If traveling by air, notify the airline/airport that you have, or are traveling with somebody who has, memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease, or another dementia. They can offer special assistance. Check with the airlines. They may offer price reductions or complementary seats to caregivers accompanying a person with disabilities.

• Try to schedule only one or two special events on any day. Try to schedule events when the person with dementia is at their best. Allow for frequent and regular quiet breaks.

Spring 2012In the Loop

When visiting others it may be helpful to let them know that the person with dementia:

• May resist going somewhere at the last minute

• May not remember names (Suggest that people introduce themselves by name and relationship – eg ”Hi Poppy, it’s Adam, your grandson”)

• May not recognize familiar people

• May become anxious or frustrated

• May want to leave earlier than others

• Any other behaviours you have experienced, or any special needs.

• Use a buddy system when using a public washroom.

• Consider registering with a program like Safely Home® Alzheimer Wandering Registry, or wearing some type of identification bracelet. Place a card with the name and number of the hotel, or contact number for where you are staying, and place in the person with demen-tia’s pocket or purse. Consider letting the hotel staff or your hosts know if the person with memory loss may wander. If the person does go missing CALL 911 or the local Emergency service.

• Realistically assess the ability to travel. Eventually someone with a progressive memory disorder may get to the point where travel is too difficult. Staying at home may be safer and more comfortable, with day trips or visits from family and friends as the circum-stances permit.

• As a caregiver it becomes important that you schedule vacation or respite time for yourself.

Contact the InfoLine (1-800-611-6345) or your Support Group for more tips and strategies, or if you wish to talk about any of the information in this article, or discuss any other issues related to dementia.

We wish you all a splendid Nova Scotian Summer.

Tips from the Alzheimer InfoLine (continued)

Door to Door Campaign Right now, there is a new case of dementia every 5 minutes in Canada.

By 2038, there will be a new case every 2 minutes.

In 2038, an estimated 26,000 Nova Scotians will have a form of dementia. The Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia needs your help.

By volunteering as a canvasser with our Door to Door Campaign, you are helping to support important programs and services that help people in our province, as well as crucial research initiatives.

We are looking for canvassers from across the province. No experience is required - All you need is a desire to make a difference.

We have many positions available to choose from, including:

• Area Captain• Canvasser• E-Canvasser

For more information, contact Michele Charlton by calling (902) 422-7961 ext. 241 or by emailing [email protected]

Spring 2012In the Loop

Most of us need a strong cup of joe to refresh our mornings. For volunteer Sharon Fraser, at McInnes Cooper a cup of coffee has been much more than that; it has been a way to make a meaningful contribution to a cause she feels is very worthy.

It was 14 years ago that Sharon and a co-worker were sitting in the lunch room and noticed a near empty donation box.

“We decided right then that we should do a bake sale to raise funds for this very worthy cause and we started organizing it that day,” says Fraser. Since then, Sharon has voluntarily organized and hosted 14 Coffee Breaks in support of the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia. And very successful ones at that.

“Over the years we have had many different volunteers for our coffee breaks and we have it down to a system,” says Sharon.

“We would encourage everyone who has not had a bake sale at their place of employment to give it a try. People will come and it’s amazing how generous people really are!”

When asked why she volunteers her time to organize a break, Sharon humbly gives credit to those who support her volunteer efforts. “Alzheimer’s disease affects the lives of so many people. We have a great group here at McInnes Cooper and are always very supportive of the many worthwhile causes that are out there so it’s not hard to do. We also have

many great bakers here so everyone is happy to come and buy all the goodies.”

Thank you Sharon and McInnes Cooper for your time and support. Sharon is one of 100 volunteer Coffee Break hosts across Nova Scotia. Thank you to all who order kits and refresh the mornings of co-workers and friends!

Interested in Becoming a Host ?This fall, join Alzheimer Societies from across Canada and make your Cup of Coffee Count, by hosting a Coffee Break! Hosting is easy and fun – we supply your party with promotional materials and even coffee! You plan the event at your office, home or business. You can incorporate games, prizes, cold drinks and baked goods!

Visit www.alzheimercoffeebreak.ca to learn more about the event, then call Sarah Lyon at the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia to request your kit at 422-7962 / 1-800-611-6345 ext. 227.

Join us as we offer help and hope to thousands of Nova Scotians, one cup of coffee at a time.

Alzheimer’s disease affects the lives of so many people.We have a great group here at McInnes Cooper and are always very supportive of the many worthwhile causes that are out there so it’s not hard to do. We also have many great bakers here so everyone is happy to come and buy all the goodies.” - Sharon Fraser

Making Your Cup of Coffee Count

Spring 2012In the Loop

Research CornerAt the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia we are often asked how someone can get involved in research. In our last two installments of the Research Corner we took a look at background information on what research is, how research is done, what a clinical trial is, what other types of dementia research are going on and what ethics govern clinical research in Canada and beyond. In this issue we’ll take a first look at how to find a trial and how to see if you can become involved. The following are a list of links that will take you to sites that describe research in Canada, the United States and some right here in Nova Scotia. We’ve repeated the links to the Alzheimer Canada checklist and information on ethics.

General Information and Guidance:

Alzheimer Canada Information on Clinical Trials and Research Studies: http://www.alzheimer.ca/en/Living-with-dementia/Treatment-options/How-drugs-are-ap-proved-in-Canada

Checklist for Participating in Clinical Trials: http://www.alzheimer.ca/en/Living-with-dementia/Treat-ment-options/~/media/Files/national/Drugs/Drug_ClinicalTrialsChecklist_2009_e.ashx

Tri-Council Policy Statement:Ethical Conduct for Research Involving Humans (TCPS 2): http://www.pre.ethics.gc.ca/pdf/eng/tcps2/TCPS_2_FINAL_Web.pdf

To Find Trials:

To find out about trials at the Geriatric Medicine Research Unit (Dalhousie University) see: http://geriatri-cresearch.medicine.dal.ca/recruiting_studies.htm

To find out about current projects at Mount Saint Vin-cent University’s Centre on Aging see: http://www.msvu.ca/en/home/community/Centres_Institutes/centreonag-ing/projects/current.aspx

For more information on clinical trials across Canada, see the Consortium of Canadian Centres for Clinical Cognitive Research website: http://c5r.ca/ongoingDS.htm

To be matched with clinical trials in the USA go to the Alzheimer’s Association Trial Match website at: http://www.alz.org/research/clinical_trials/find_clinical_trials_trialmatch.asp

For information about clinical trials taking place worldwide, please visit: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/

To find out about Brain Donation for the benefit of science: please visit: http://braintissuebank.dal.ca/tissue-donations/info-for-donors

Your doctor may also be a good source to tell you about trials and studies you might be eligible for.

In our next issue we will take a look at the Maritime Brain Tissue Bank, a world resource here in Nova Scotia, and we will announce the winner of our 2012 Phillis Horton Bursary. Stay Tuned.

Acadia Axemen Score Big in JanuaryThe Acadia Axemen football players are no strangers to fundraising. On the last Wednesday in January 2012, the players set out like they have for the

past 16 years for a night of canvassing for the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia. It has become an important team ritual and one that members of the Wolfville community look forward to every year.

Dressed in their team jerseys, 60 players equipped with canvassing kits in their hands and smiles on their faces, knocked on hundreds of their neighbours’ doors asking for a donation.

Both rookies and seasoned players teamed up to tackle 21 designated routes in the community. While some residents invited the players in for a visit out of the cold, others just wanted to have a quick chat.

One thing is certain though; the residents of Wolfville gave generously.

Spring 2012In the Loop

Since our last issue of In the Loop, The Society hascontinued to drill down what our provincial role is and what our responsibilities are in relation to Advocacy and Public Policy. We have refined the role of the Board as the preeminent decision maker relative to public policy, supported by input from the positions of the Alzheimer Society Federation. The Committee serves in an advisory capacity as the direct link to our stakeholders and as the reviewer of initiatives in both public policy and advocacy as well as the monitor of our activities. Staff will continue to hold the role of researcher and collaborator with other Health Charities and as the operational lead.

We have witnessed a continued high level of concern around the sustainability of our health system, both nationally and provincially, as well as the growing prevalence of chronic disease and the disparity

amongst the provinces regarding capacity to deliver programs and services. The more recent announcement of holding health transfers to 6% and then linking it to gross domestic product in 2018 has most provinces gravely concerned about finding cost effective ways of delivering care and ensuring the protection of national standards.

Consequently our primary initiative around Public Policy in Nova Scotia will be the development of a dementia strategy and our plan to respond specifically to the needs of persons with dementia and their caregivers. When you combine the fiscal constraints, with the provincial capacity issues, it is welcome news that the Council of the Federation has formed in January; a working group entitled the Health Care Innovation Working Group composed of all Provincial and Territorial Ministers. The intent is to drive a collaborative process for transformation and innovation to ensure the sustainability of our health care delivery network. We will be reaching out to them to highlight the need and the benefits of a dementia strategy, both provincially and nationally.

Advocacy Corner

“We are very pleased to be able to contribute to the University-College Challenge because it is something we believe in.” - Jeff Cummins

Thanks to the leadership of the Acadia Axemen and the generosity of the Wolfville community, over $7,000 was raised on January 25 making the Axemen the winners of the University-College Challenge!

“We are very pleased to be able to contribute to the University-College Challenge because it is something we believe in,” says Head Coach Jeff Cummins. “I hope that next year we will be able to do more, but to date this is the best Acadia Football has ever done, so for that I am really proud of this team. Winning isn’t something done once in awhile, it’s got to be everyday in everything we do.” The University-College Challenge campaign gives student groups such as sports teams, fraternities, sororities and societies the opportunity to get involved in fundraising

activities and participate in this exciting challenge throughout the month of January.

Alzheimer’s disease affects more than the individual, it affects the entire family. It’s important for Nova Scotians, especially the younger generation to become educated about the disease and start practicing better brain health now.

Thank you to the Acadia Axemen for being leaders in your community and raising important funds that will help pro-vide programs and services for families living with Alzheim-er’s disease or other dementias.

Acadia Axemen Score Big in January (continued)

Spring 2012In the Loop

Our Office is Moving!

Save the Date !

Effective July 1st, The offices of the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia will be moving to a new location.

The recent Mental Health Strategy, while an important document, and one that the Alzheimer Society supports; does not address specifically the needs of persons with dementia or their caregivers. This strategy like several others within Nova Scotia are complimentary to a dementia plan, but certainly does not replace the need for a national plan and or a made in Nova Scotia response.

We look forward to working with other partners to address this issue.

Our new address will be:

112-2717 Gladstone Street Halifax, Nova Scotia B3K 0A4 Phone: 422-7961 Toll Free: 1-800-611-6345 Fax: 422-7971 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.alzheimer.ca/ns

22nd Annual Provincial Alzheimer Conference:This year’s conference will be held on October 15 and 16 at the Holiday Inn Harbourview. Registration materials and a list of presentations and speakers will be available in June. If you have any questions about the conference, please contact Linda Bird, Director of Programs and Services by calling 422-7961 ext. 222, or by e-mailing [email protected]

Family Caregiver Education Series: We are always updating our list of Family Caregiver Education Series sessions taking place across the province. Visit our website at www.alzheimer.ca/ns, or call our Alzheimer InfoLine at 422-7961 to find out more information about dates and locations.

Cape Breton Family and Friends Night:Support Through the Dementia JourneyThursday, June 7, 6:00 p.m.Nova Scotia Community College, Marconi Campus For more information, call Patsy LeBlanc at (902) 842-1314 Bill & Eleanor Mclean Golf Tournament Fundraiser:Saturday, June 23, 2012Start time 10:30 a.m.Annapolis Royal Golf Association For more information on the event or how to partici-pate, please contact: Jacqui Shepherd at 902 532-2064 or email [email protected]

The Society receives no core government funding and relies totally on the support of the community. Should you wish to help make a difference in the lives of Nova Scotians impacted by Alzheimer’s, please contact us today to make a donation, or to find out about the many other ways through which you can help.

Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia 6009 Quinpool Road, Suite 300, Halifax, NS B3K 5J7 (902) 422-7961 or 1-800-611-6345 (outside Metro) www.alzheimer.ca/ns

Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

JUNE 28, 2012

THE WAEGWOLTIC CLUB6549 Coburg Road

Halifax, Nova Scotia

5:30 p.m. Evening reception with hors d’oeuvres

6:00 p.m. Presentation of Service Awards to Volunteers 6:10 p.m. Introduction of Guest Speaker - Lloyd Brown Guest Speaker - Dr. Sultan Darvesh 6:40 p.m. Annual General Meeting 1) Opening of the Meeting2) Confirmation of Quorum3) Approval of the agenda4) Approval of minutes of 2011 AGM5) Observation of moment of silence 6) President’s report 7) Executive Director’s Report 8) Approval of the 2011-2012 Audited Financial Statements 9) Appointment of Auditors10) Nominating Committee Report 11) Presentation of Phyllis Horton Research Bursary

7:30 p.m. Adjournment

In the Loop Spring 2012