The non-profit Alzheimer Society of B.C. needs several volunteers in Parksville for the upcoming session of its Minds in Motion program, according to a release from the non-profit group.
The fitness and social program helps Parksville Qualicum Beach residents who have early symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia. Participants can enjoy a weekly afternoon session with a friend, family member or care partner.
“It’s very rewarding work,” said Shanan St. Louis, the society’s Minds in Motion coordinator for Parksville and the central and north Island. “You’re enriching the lives of others.”
A certified fitness instructor conducts the fitness portion of the program. A facilitator ensures participants are involved in activities or just enjoying social time and light refreshments in a relaxed atmosphere.
In addition to helping others, volunteers have the opportunity to spend one-to-one time with participants and see first hand how people’s lives are enriched by this program. Some experience working with older adults and basic knowledge of, or experience with, dementia would also be helpful.
The afternoon program takes place on Fridays from 1:30-3:30 p.m. at Parksville Community Centre, 132 Jensen Ave. East.
For information on volunteering, contact St. Louis at the Alzheimer Resource Centre at 250-734-4170 or sstlouis@alzheimerbc.org. To register as a participant in Minds in Motion, call 250-248-3252.
Minds in Motion is offered in partnership by the Alzheimer Society of B.C. and the B.C. Ministry of Health Services.
Residents can get more information on Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias by visiting www.alzheimerbc.org.
— Submitted by Alzheimer’s Society of B.C.