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-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

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-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

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-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