A fitness program designed for body and mind needs volunteers.
Minds in Motion is a fitness and social program for people experiencing early stage memory loss and their caregiver.
The local resource centre of the non-profit Alzheimer Society of B.C. needs volunteers who can help with these weekly programs.
“Our volunteers assist and engage with program participants, so a friendly personality, helpful demeanour and a sense of fun would be great assets,” said Tina Biello, First Link coordinator for Nanaimo.
Minds in Motion offers a 45-minute gentle fitness program followed by an hour of socializing and activities such as board games, ping pong or puzzles designed to stimulate thinking, laughter and conversation.
In addition to helping others, volunteers have the opportunity to spend rewarding 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.
One in 11 B.C. residents over age 65 is affected by dementia and the number of cases is projected to double over the next generation.
The resulting need for assistance is soaring. Volunteers help ensure that the demand is met.
For more information and to volunteer, contact Biello at 250-734-4171 or tbiello@alzheimerbc.org.
Residents can get more information on Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias by visiting www.alzheimerbc.org.