People with dementia will have closer ties to their loved ones and caregivers as the government is providing $ 5.4 million over two years to help fund first-link support for people with dementia.
This is a collection of programs and services offered by the Alzheimer Society of British Columbia to people with dementia.
“For people with dementia and their families, we know how important it is to stay connected to each other, especially during the pandemic,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “Our government is proud to provide funding for First Link Dementia Support, so people affected by dementia have access to the help and information they need about this disease, when they need it. “
First Link offers support to people with dementia and their caregivers throughout the progression of the disease, from diagnosis or before, to the end of life. People can connect to First Link through a referral from their health care provider or by calling the First Link Dementia Help Line at 1-800-936-6033.
“I want to thank the Alzheimer Society of British Columbia for the incredible work they continue to do, especially throughout the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Mable Elmore, Parliamentary Secretary for Human Services elderly and long-term care. “The guidance, knowledge and resources provided by the company have helped people with dementia, their caregivers and their families through a difficult time.
When a person is diagnosed and referred to First Link, they are contacted by the Alzheimer Society of British Columbia to connect with programs or services that will meet their needs, as well as ongoing support. Since the start of the pandemic, First Link services have been offered online.
“This funding, which will help support First Link for two years, ensures that no one on the road to dementia has to face it alone,” said Jen Lyle, CEO of the Alzheimer Society of British Columbia. “First Link has always been a team effort between society and families, donors, fundraisers, volunteers and community partners, and we are very grateful for the ministry’s continued commitment to be a part of this. team.
There are currently over 13,500 British Columbians logged into First Link. In 2019-2020, more than 71,000 people aged 40 and over in British Columbia were living with dementia.
Learn more:
To learn more about First Link, visit: www.alzheimerbc.org
To learn more about Alzheimer’s disease, visit: www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-topics/hw136623
