Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories

The Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories is working to change the face of dementia in Alberta and improve the quality of life for those with the disease. Through seven regional centres and a provincial office, the Society offers a provincial network of educational and support services for those with dementia and their care partners, builds partnerships with health professionals and the community and advances research into effective treatments and finding a cure for this devastating disease.

In 2014, almost 40,000 Albertans were living with dementia, almost 1% of the total population. By 2043 if nothing changes, it is expected this will increase to 225,000 Albertans, almost 3.5% of the population. There is currently no known cause or cure for Alzheimer’s disease but there is hope for creating a better tomorrow.

The Society’s Programs and Services include:

First Link®
Individual care planning consultations
Individual and group support
Seeds of Hope learning series
Onsite information and community referrals
Public education and information
ASANT Café – online community for individuals affected by dementia
Safely Home TM (Wandering registry)

Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.

Our mission
The Alzheimer Society of Alberta & Northwest Territories brings awareness to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias; helps alleviate the personal and social consequences of the disease; provides education and support programs; and, promotes and funds research into the cause, prevention and cure.
Our values are “CARE: Collaboration, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence.”

Our guiding principles
In all of our publications and communications, we focus on using person-centred language and support the following principles:

Personhood: A standing or status that is bestowed upon one human being, by others, in the context of relationship and social being. It implies recognition, respect and trust. -Kitwood, T.M.Dementia Reconsidered: the person comes first. p. cm.-(Rethinking Aging series)

Dignity and respect: To create positive conditions where the person can live without fear of shame or ridicule; where people are treated with warmth and authenticity; listened to without judgment; and are given opportunity for self-determination and self-expression.

Acceptance and understanding: To accept each person with unconditional positive regard; to accept behaviour as a form of communication which expresses unmet needs or emotions; and to assist the person to continue to enjoy basic personal freedoms.

Relationships: To support and preserve present relationships; to support the person in the development of other positive relationships.

Recognition and individuality: To recognize the individuality of each person with their own unique life experiences, personality, values, beliefs and opinions; to have these factors respected and incorporated in support planning.

Relationships of trust: To provide the conditions necessary to satisfy fundamental needs and create a climate for personal realization by providing a relationship based on trust. In a relationship of trust the person knows confidences are respected; choice and control is maintained; and the person will not be abandoned.

Further information is available through our Regional Offices or toll-free at: 1-866-950-5465