This page brings together high-quality resources for people living with dementia, and their families and carers. It is intended as a starting point — not a substitute for advice from your own medical team.
Dementia organisations in BC and Canada
- Alzheimer Society of BC and Yukon — The primary provincial organisation for dementia support in BC. They offer the First Link® care navigation service, support groups for people at all stages, educational programmes, and culturally specific resources in Cantonese, Mandarin, Punjabi, Hindi, and Urdu. Their office is in Vancouver (828 W. 8th Avenue, Suite 300).
- Alzheimer Society of Canada — National partner to the BC Society, providing dementia information, research updates, and links to provincial support organisations across Canada.
Understanding dementia
- What is dementia? — HealthLink BC’s overview of dementia: causes, types, symptoms, how it is diagnosed, and what treatment can and cannot do. Available in BC via 8-1-1.
- About dementia — Alzheimer Society of Canada — Plain-language explanations of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias including vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.
- Alzheimer’s disease and dementia — Here to Help BC — BC-focused information sheet on Alzheimer’s disease covering symptoms, risk factors, and BC-specific supports for people living with dementia and their families.
- Dementia — NHS — UK National Health Service overview of dementia including types, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
After a diagnosis — what to do
A dementia diagnosis can feel overwhelming. These resources are designed specifically for people who have just received one.
- First Link® Dementia Helpline — The single most important BC resource after a diagnosis. Call 1-800-936-6033 (English, Mon–Fri 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.) to be connected to education, support groups, and community services. Also available in Cantonese and Mandarin (1-833-674-5007) and Punjabi, Hindi, and Urdu (1-833-674-5003), Mon–Fri 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- First steps after a dementia diagnosis — Alzheimer Society of Canada — Step-by-step guidance on what to do following a diagnosis, including contacting First Link®, learning about dementia, talking with family, and planning ahead.
- Accessing home support and care services in BC — Alzheimer Society of BC guide to publicly funded home support, adult day programmes, and residential care in BC, including how to request a health authority assessment.
- Dementia information — Government of British Columbia — BC government portal with provincial dementia care resources for people with dementia, families, and healthcare providers.
- Seniors housing — Province of BC — BC government directory of seniors housing options including independent living, assisted living, and residential care, with information on how to access publicly funded services.
Living with dementia
- Living well with dementia — Alzheimer Society of Canada — Practical strategies for daily life, staying connected, and maintaining independence and quality of life after a diagnosis.
- Minds in Motion® — A free fitness and social programme run by the Alzheimer Society of BC for people in the early stages of dementia and their care partners. Combines physical activity with social connection.
- Caring for a person living with dementia — Alzheimer Society of Canada — Guidance for carers on communication, daily routines, safety in the home, and managing behavioural changes as dementia progresses.
Support for carers
Caring for someone with dementia is demanding. Support is available for carers too.
- Support groups — Alzheimer Society of BC — Monthly virtual support groups for carers and early-stage support groups for people living with dementia. Specialised groups are available for adult children, long-term care carers, young-onset dementia, Lewy body and frontotemporal dementia, and 2SLGBTQIA+ carers. Register via the First Link® Helpline.
- Family Caregivers BC — Provincial organisation supporting the one million+ unpaid carers in BC. Offers one-on-one coaching, peer support, education, and community navigation. Caregiver Support Line: 1-877-520-3267 (Mon–Fri 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
- Here to Help BC — Mental health information and referrals for carers experiencing stress, anxiety, or burnout.
- 310 Mental Health Line — Call or text 310-6789 (no area code needed) for free, 24/7 emotional support and mental health referrals anywhere in BC.
- National Crisis Line — Call or text 9-8-8 (toll-free, 24/7) for immediate support if you or someone you care for is in crisis.
Brain health
Research suggests that certain lifestyle factors can support brain health and may reduce the risk of cognitive decline. These resources summarise the evidence.
- Brain health — Alzheimer’s Association — Evidence-based guidance on physical activity, nutrition, sleep, and cognitive engagement as factors supporting long-term brain health.
- Cognitive health and older adults — National Institute on Aging — US National Institute on Aging overview of the evidence on cognitive health, including what is and is not proven to help.
If you are interested in a neuropsychological assessment to evaluate memory or other cognitive concerns, please contact us or submit a referral.