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Upcoming workshop to help dementia-sufferers have a laugh-filled life

Aug 19, 2017 | 12:48 PM

NANAIMO — There can still be hope and positivity when dealing with dementia and an upcoming workshops wants to help as many sufferers as possible realize that.

The Minds in Motion workshop, hosted at the Beban Park Social Centre, starts Sept. 12 with two sessions a week.

Program coordinator Shanan St. Louis told NanaimoNewsNOW the program keeps those suffering from early-stage dementia active and engaged.

“By providing activities where people are successful, it makes people feel good about themselves, it makes them feel capable of completing tasks. I find it gets people out of their head space of their journey and focusing on what’s happening now, in the moment.”

There’s a physical aspect of the program, led by a fitness instructor, as well as social and activity time.

St. Louis said having a social outlet is important because it helps create a normalized setting where it’s okay to struggle getting words out or recalling certain memories.

“I hear many times when someone gets a diagnosis of dementia, their social circle shrinks. This really fills that need of being around people in an environment where they can have fun and exercise both their body and their brain.”

There’s room for 12 pairs in the workshop.

St.Louis said it also helps the partner, since it alleviates some of the pressure of care and shifts the tone in a more positive direction.

“Many times on this journey, focusing on the care of somebody can get quite taxing. Coming to something like Minds in Motion lifts their spirits as well.”

The workshop runs for 6 to 8 weeks. The first session is free and then costs $6 with tax per session for a pair.

 

spencer@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @spencer_sterrit