Wayne, Yukola, and Chris share what it’s like to live with dementia, how they’ve adjusted, what gets them through hard days, and what continues to bring them joy. Their stories are honest and personal, showing that life with dementia still holds purpose, connection, and laughter. They talk about what helps most, from small fixes around the house to the support of loved ones, and what they wish others understood about what they’re going through. Key TakeawaysSimple tools and routines can make daily life easierSupport from family, friends, and neighbours makes a big differenceKindness and patience matter more than trying to correct someoneStaying active and doing what you love helps you feel like yourselfTalking openly helps others understand and feel less alone ResourcesHelpForDementia.ca – Information, support, and programs for people living with dementia and their care partnersAlzheimer.ab.ca – Free education and services for families and care partners

Dr. Robert Sutherland, neuroscientist and director at the Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, joins us to share how his work and life have been shaped by dementia. He reflects on the impact of dementia in his own family and explains what current science tells us about causes, prevention and treatment. Dr. Sutherland discusses how research is evolving, what surprises him most in the lab and why addressing dementia requires more than a single solution. He also speaks to the importance of improving care, reducing misinformation and expanding access to services that can help. Key Takeaways Multiple Causes – Alzheimer’s isn’t one disease with one cause. Many processes in the brain can lead to it.Amyloid and Tau – These proteins play a role, but more amyloid doesn’t always mean worse symptoms.Modifiable Risk – Hearing loss, hypertension, and heart health matter. Lifestyle changes can reduce risk.Care and Access – People often aren’t prescribed helpful treatments early enough. Better systems are needed.Long-Term Hope – With continued research and collaboration, he hopes to slow or even prevent most cases. Resources HelpForDementia.ca – Information, support, and programs for people living with dementia and their care partnersAlzheimer.ab.ca – Free education and services for families and care partners

Global Edmonton news anchor and care partner Erin Chalmers joins us to share her personal experience supporting her mom, who lives with dementia. She reflects on what it was like in the early days after diagnosis, how relationships changed over time, and what helped her most along the way. Erin speaks openly about the emotional impact of caregiving, how she navigated moments of guilt and frustration, and why staying connected, even in small ways, matters. Key TakeawaysEarly Signs – Memory loss isn’t the only change. It can start with shifts in personality or judgment.Support Groups – Being in a room with others going through the same thing can help ease isolation.Communication – Connection is still possible, even if words fade. Small moments count.Emotions – It’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Giving yourself permission to step back helps.Family Roles – Dementia changes relationships. Kindness and patience go a long way. ResourcesHelpForDementia.ca – Information, support, and programs for people living with dementia and their care partnersAlzheimer.ab.ca – Free education and services for families and care partners

Dementia navigator Annmarie and caregiver support specialist Sarah join a live Q&A to answer real questions from families supporting someone living with dementia. They explain what to expect at each stage, how to respond to behavioural changes and why care partner emotions like guilt, grief and anger are common and valid. The conversation includes practical tools, stories from care partners, and reminders that no one needs to go through this alone. Key TakeawaysStages of Dementia – The disease doesn’t always follow a straight path. Sudden changes can happen.Unmet Needs – Behaviour changes like aggression or withdrawal can be responses to discomfort or fear.Care Partner Emotions – Grief, guilt and burnout are part of the journey. Support makes a difference.Practical Help – Navigators can connect families to diagnosis, care services, and activity programs.Building Trust – Small changes in language and tone can ease resistance and help maintain connection. ResourcesHelpForDementia.ca – Information, support, and programs for people living with dementia and their care partnersAlzheimer.ab.ca – Free education and services for families and care partners

Karen McLean describes life after her husband Scott was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s at age 52. She recalls the first subtle changes, the rapid decline that followed and the decision to move Scott into full-time care. Karen speaks openly about exhaustion, care-partner burnout and the support she receives from the Alzheimer Society community. Key Takeaways Early Signs and Diagnosis – Subtle mood and behaviour shifts pointed to something deeper. Care-Partner Strain – Physical fatigue and emotional stress build quickly; burnout is real. Community Response – Positive support from neighbours, professionals and friends matters. Family Impact – Loved ones grieve before a physical loss, and Karen’s daughter feels she “lost Dad twice.” Role of the Alzheimer Society – Education, counselling, and peer groups provide critical relief Resources HelpForDementia.ca – Information, support, and programs for people living with dementia and their care partners Alzheimer.ab.ca – Free education and services for families and care partners AlzheimersFaceOff.ca – Edmonton-based hockey tournament that raises funds for free dementia education, support services and research

Dr. Marc Poulin is here to talk healthy brain aging and dementia prevention. A researcher and professor at the University of Calgary, Dr. Poulin's work focuses on understanding how exercise influences cognition in older adults at risk of dementia. He has worked with hundreds of older adults, gaining insights into the dementia journey and the importance of care partner support. We explore the significance of lifestyle choices, the latest in dementia research, and the importance of reliable information sources. Dr. Poulin also shares personal stories with his own family's journey with dementia.   Research: https://alzheimer.ca/en/research/reports-dementia Reducing Stigma: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en/take-action/change-minds Support Groups: https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/programs-services/find-support Ways to Donate: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en/take-action/ways-donate The Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en

In Part 2 of this conversation, lawyer Doris Bonora continues to explore financial scams with a focus on phishing, business impersonation, and issues related to care partner or family fraud. Drawing on her extensive legal experience in estate planning and litigation, Doris explains how scammers use urgency and pressure to push for quick decisions. She provides practical tips to verify suspicious communications and safeguard your finances. Key Points: How scam artists use urgency, pressure, and fake promises to prompt immediate action Strategies for verifying suspicious emails, phone calls, or messages (such as those mimicking reputable organizations) Real-life examples of phishing tactics and business impersonation schemes Tips on using Power of Attorney effectively to protect financial interests The importance of slowing down, double-checking information, and consulting trusted advisors before taking action Resources: HelpForDementia.ca – Your go-to site for information, support, and programs related to dementia Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories – Services and resources for those living with dementia, their families, and care partners Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional legal or financial advice. Always consult qualified professionals to address individual concerns.

In this first part of our special conversation, lawyer Doris Bonora discusses the most common financial scams targeting seniors, including government impersonation, tech support fraud, and emotional manipulations like the “grandparent scam” and “romance scam.” Drawing on her decades of legal experience in estate planning and litigation, Doris offers insight into why older adults, especially those living with dementia, are more vulnerable to these scams, and she provides practical steps to help you spot red flags and protect your finances. Key Points & Takeaways: How scam artists use urgency, fear, and secrecy to pressure quick decisions Strategies for verifying suspicious calls or messages (CRA, pop-up tech support, etc.) Real-life examples of how fraudsters exploit loneliness or family ties Slow down, verify, and never be pressured into making a quick decision. Resources Mentioned: HelpForDementia.ca – Your go-to site for information, support, and programs related to dementia Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories – Services and resources for those living with dementia, their families, and care partners Looking Ahead:Stay tuned for Part 2 of our discussion with Doris Bonora, where we continue exploring scams such as phishing, business impersonation, and care partner or family fraud. Doris will also share tips on using Power of Attorney effectively to safeguard seniors. Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional legal or financial advice. Always consult qualified professionals to address individual concerns.

We’re joined by Julie Desautels, Palliative Care Learning Specialist, to introduce the helpfordementia.ca resource for those supporting family or friends living with dementia. Julie shares practical tools and educational resources, all designed to make navigating the care journey easier. Whether it’s finding answers to pressing questions, using the Seeds of Hope Learning Series, or planning ahead with easy-to-use checklists, this episode is full of actionable insights that every care partner can use to feel more empowered and supported.   Help For Dementia New Website: https://www.helpfordementia.ca/Care Partner resources: https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/im-caring-person-living-dementiaLynn Ferguson Episode: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-6a87d-1631f7aThe Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/enPhone Number: 1-866-950-5465

Welcome to Season 2 of the newly rebrand Help for Dementia Podcast (formerly Cognitive Connections). In this episode, we welcome back Christine McWilliam, the new Manager of Strategy and Projects at the Alzheimer Society. Christine introduces HelpforDementia.ca, the Society’s updated online resource platform. They discuss its key features, including mobile access, a support chatbot, and new educational content like the Seeds of Hope series. Tune in to learn how the platform is designed to provide reliable, accessible support for those living with dementia, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.Help For Dementia New Website: https://www.helpfordementia.ca/Support Groups: https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/programs-services/find-supportCare Partner resources: https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/im-caring-person-living-dementiaReducing stigma: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en/take-action/change-mindsThe Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/enPhone Number: 1-866-950-5465

Lynn Ferguson shares her personal journey with young onset dementia. She discusses how her sister first noticed changes in her behavior and how they sought medical help. Lynn talks about the shock of receiving the diagnosis and the initial feelings of sadness and fear. However, she emphasizes that life doesn't end with a dementia diagnosis and that there is still so much to live for. Lynn shares her daily routine, coping strategies, and the importance of understanding and respecting her own needs. She also highlights the need for more awareness and education around dementia, and encourages others to live their lives to the fullest.Resources: Young Onset Dementia: https://alzheimer.ca/en/about-dementia/other-types-dementia/young-onset-dementia Leave a Legacy: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en/take-action/ways-donate/leave-legacy Care Partner resources: https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/im-caring-person-living-dementia Reducing stigma: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en/take-action/change-minds The Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en Phone Number: 1-866-950-5465

Al Matheson is a dedicated care partner who has been caring for his wife, Joanne, who was diagnosed with early-onset dementia in 2015. Al has been with Joanne for over 50 years and shares his experience and insights into the challenges and lessons he has learned throughout his caregiving journey. He emphasizes the importance of seeking support from organizations like the Alzheimer's Society and highlights the need for greater awareness and support for individuals in the end-of-life stage of dementia. Al also discusses the impact of the disease on his family and the importance of self-care for care partners.   Resources:Young Onset Dementia: https://alzheimer.ca/en/about-dementia/other-types-dementia/young-onset-dementiaLeave a Legacy: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en/take-action/ways-donate/leave-legacyCare Partner resources: https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/im-caring-person-living-dementiaReducing stigma: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en/take-action/change-mindsThe Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/enPhone Number: 1-866-950-5465

Jag's journey began when his wife, Carol Lynn, was diagnosed with early-onset frontotemporal dementia. Jag discusses the journey from the initial signs and symptoms to the diagnosis and the rapid progression. He emphasizes the importance of awareness and early intervention in managing dementia. Jag also highlights the role of the Alzheimer Society in providing support, resources, and a supportive community for care partners. He shares his personal struggles and the impact of caregiving on his mental health. Resources:Young Onset Dementia: https://alzheimer.ca/en/about-dementia/other-types-dementia/young-onset-dementiaLeave a Legacy: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en/take-action/ways-donate/leave-legacyCare Partner resources: https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/im-caring-person-living-dementiaReducing stigma: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en/take-action/change-mindsThe Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/enPhone Number: 1-866-950-5465

Cindy McCaffrey, co-founder of YouQuest, a charity that operates a wellness day program for individuals under the age of 65 living with dementia. Cindy shares her personal journey with her husband's diagnosis of young onset dementia and how it inspired her to create a program that provides socialization, stimulating activities, and respite for care partners. She discusses the challenges faced by young onset dementia patients and their families, the importance of peer support and community, and the need for more awareness and support in the workplace. Cindy also highlights the role of recreational therapists in YouQuest's program and the positive impact of physical activity and social engagement on individuals with dementia. Resources:YouQuest:https://youquest.ca/Young Onset Dementia: https://alzheimer.ca/en/about-dementia/other-types-dementia/young-onset-dementiaLeave a Legacy: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en/take-action/ways-donate/leave-legacyCare Partner resources: https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/im-caring-person-living-dementiaReducing stigma: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en/take-action/change-mindsThe Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/enPhone Number: 1-866-950-5465  

Dr. Marc Poulin is here to talk healthy brain aging and dementia prevention. A researcher and professor at the University of Calgary, Dr. Poulin's work focuses on understanding how exercise influences cognition in older adults at risk of dementia. He has worked with hundreds of older adults, gaining insights into the dementia journey and the importance of care partner support. We explore the significance of lifestyle choices, the latest in dementia research, and the importance of reliable information sources. Dr. Poulin also shares personal stories with his own family's journey with dementia.   Research: https://alzheimer.ca/en/research/reports-dementia Reducing Stigma: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en/take-action/change-minds Support Groups: https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/programs-services/find-support Ways to Donate: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en/take-action/ways-donate The Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en

Brenda Jackson is the driving force behind Amplified for Alzheimer's, an event that raises funds and awareness for Alzheimer's and dementia research. Brenda shares her personal connection to the cause and how she got involved with volunteering and organizing the event. She discusses the inspiration behind Amplified for Alzheimer's and how it grew from a small music event to a seven-hour festival with multiple bands. Brenda also talks about the importance of community support and the impact of volunteering. She shares her experience organizing the event and the satisfaction she derived from it. Brenda emphasizes the need for more awareness and support for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's and dementia.Resources: ASANT Cafe: alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/programs-services/find-supportSeeds of Hope: alzheimer.ca/ab/en/help-support/programs-services#Seeds_of_Hope_Family_Learning_SeriesBrain Hub: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en/node/1716Reducing stigma: alzheimer.ca/ab/en/take-action/change-mindsThe Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories: alzheimer.ca/ab/enPhone Number: 1-866-950-5465

Navjot Gill is a PhD candidate at the University of Waterloo, specializing in the experiences of South Asian Canadians living with dementia and their care partners. She shares her personal journey with her grandmother’s dementia diagnosis and highlights the cultural and linguistic barriers that exist within the South Asian community. Navjot emphasizes the need for culturally inclusive resources and services that can support individuals and families affected by dementia. She also discusses the significance of representation and the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding dementia in South Asian communities. Resources Leave a Legacy: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en/take-action/ways-donate/leave-legacy Care Partner resources: https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/im-caring-person-living-dementia Reducing stigma: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en/take-action/change-minds The Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en Phone Number: 1-866-950-5465

Former NHL player Jason Strudwick joins the podcast to discuss the Alzheimer’s Face Off Pro-Am Hockey Tournament (AFO). Jason shares his involvement in the event this April, highlighting its purpose of raising funds for Alzheimer’s research while fostering a sense of community among participants. From the excitement of draft night to the luncheon and heartfelt connections made, Jason provides insights into the wide impact of the AFO tournament in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. Through his personal experiences, Jason invites listeners into the world of hockey coming together for a meaningful cause. Resources: Alzheimer’s Face Off: https://alzheimersfaceoff.ca Champions Luncheon: https://secure.e2rm.com/registrant/TicketingCatalog.aspx?eventid=385710&langpref=en-CA&Referrer=https%3a%2f%2fadmin.e2rm.com%2f AFO Volunteering: https://form.jotform.com1/231635357859266 Learn about the Alzheimer Society: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BWd0ox-OZMA&ab_channel=HelpForDementia

Dr. Joshua Armstrong, a research scientist with the Alzheimer Society of Canada, discusses their latest study that explores the impacts of dementia on different populations, including those with young onset dementia, gender differences, ethnic origins, and indigenous communities. Dr. Armstrong highlights the importance of understanding the unique needs of each group and emphasizes the role of modifiable risk factors in reducing dementia risk. He also shared the increasing projections for the growth of dementia in the Asian population in Canada. Dr. Armstrong advocates for tailored interventions and comprehensive strategies to address dementia’s challenges. Resources: Landmark Study #2: https://alzheimer.ca/en/the-many-faces-of-dementia-in-canada-landmark-study-volume-2 Landmark Study #1: https://alzheimer.ca/en/research/reports-dementia/landmark-study-report-1-path-forward Reports on Dementia: https://alzheimer.ca/en/research/reports-dementia Research: https://alzheimer.ca/en/research 10 Priorities for Dementia Research: https://alzheimer.ca/en/research/10-priorities-dementia-research-canada Leave a Legacy: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en/take-action/ways-donate/leave-legacy The Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories: alzheimer.ca/ab/en

Heunjung Lee discusses her approach to understanding dementia through arts and humanities, challenging the stigma, and reframing the reality perception of people living with dementia. She  shares her research on using art to promote better quality of life in care homes and highlights the importance of recognizing and promoting the enduring abilities of individuals with dementia. Heunjung emphasizes the power of arts in creating connections, challenging stigma, and raising fundamental questions about our perception of dementia. Heunjung Lee is a PhD candidate in Performance Studies and an instructor at the Department of Drama at the University of Alberta. Her research focuses on how performance practices and theories can challenge ageism and stigma around dementia. She has created a research-based art piece called ”Across Time Through Dementia” and has been awarded and invited to several exhibitions. Resources Leave a Legacy: https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en/take-action/ways-donate/leave-legacy Care Partner resources: alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/im-caring-person-living-dementia Reducing stigma: alzheimer.ca/ab/en/take-action/change-minds Heunjung’s Research: Heunjung Lee. ”En/Countering Ageism Together: All the Sex I’ve Ever Had by Mammalian Diving Reflex.” Theatre Research in Canada 44.1, 2023, pp. 82-102. https://doi.org/10.3138/tric-2022-0004 Heunjung Lee and Xavia A. Publius, ”Getting Our Flowers Now: Ageing Trans and Queer Bodies in Gardenia (2010) and Gardenia - 10 Years Later (2021).” European Journal of Theatre and Performance, Issue 6, 2023, pp. 126-169. https://journal.eastap.com/eastap-issue-6/. Heunjung’s Artwork: Heunjung Lee. ”A Cross Time through Dementia.” Education and Research Archive. https://doi.org/10.7939/r3-1yzh-1910 Note: From a biomedical perspective, dementia is defined as a neurodegenerative condition, however, there is an emerging view that dementia should be included in the neurodivergent group. While pointing out the risks and tensions that ensues by including dementia in neurodiversity, Linda Örulv (2023) has argued that a neurodiversity perspective or paradigm can be applied to dementia “insofar as it points to how [normative models of functioning] limit our possibilities to act and interact in society, thereby alienating and marginalising minorities that diverge from them” (248). Örulv, Linda. ”18 Neurodiversity and dementia.” Critical Dementia Studies (2023): 247.