Merging Music and
Art in March!
This month, we’re excited to celebrate both Music Therapy Month and Creative Art Therapy Week, occurring from March 16 to 22.
AGI is delighted to provide services from both fields. Keep reading to discover the profound impact that these therapies have on enhancing the emotional and cognitive well-being of people living with dementia.
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Art Therapy
Expressing Yourself
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AGI's Activity Centre Friday Group |
The Caring Tree project, spearheaded by Art Therapy interns Audrey and Ariane
blossomed from a simple question: What are things you can say or do to show someone you love them?
After gathering responses from participants, Audrey and Ariane meticulously typed, printed, and brought these sentiments to the group to be glued on colorful paper leaves of various shapes. These decorated leaves were affixed to real branches collected from the outdoors, nestled in a vase filled with hand-painted rocks for stability.
Next time you’re at our office, stop by the Caregiver Lounge to see The Caring Tree, visitors are encouraged to take a message off the tree that resonates with them, or leave a message for others to read: how do you show love to those around you?
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Music Therapy
Drumming Together
Drum circles are one of the many musical experiences that group members are invited to participate in at AGI’s Activity Centre.
Drumming has a variety of health and well-being benefits. Through synchronized rhythm, drumming can promote group cohesion, enhance self-expression, reduce stress, act as a mode of communication, and ultimately strengthen bonds between individuals.
Click the button below to listen to an audio sample of one of our Activity Centre groups participating in a drum circle.
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Upcoming Webinar
Tax Benefits for
Caregivers
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Presented by:
Kathryn Hejnar
Tax Consultant and Caregiver
Learn about some tax credits that could be available to you as a caregiver.
Thursday, March 21, 2024
12 pm - 1 pm
Free | Online via Zoom
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Please note, this webinar will not
be recorded.
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Past
Reflections on Dementia Care
Presented by:
Dr. Justin Sanders, MD, MSc
Physician and Director at McGill University
In case you missed it, here are some points that were discussed:
• Needs of the person
• How does a serious illness progress
• Symptoms of dementia near the end
• Assessing quality of life
• Important questions to ask
Justin also recommends books about caregiving.
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Made possible through the generosity of the Lassner Learning Centre and the
Lindsay Memorial Foundation.
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Brain Health Awareness Month
Did you know your habits impact your brain?
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A “healthy lifestyle” is one that includes physical activity, cognitive activity, a nutritious diet, and social engagement. While there are some factors you cannot control for dementia such as age and genetics, you can do your best to reduce other kinds of risks: Below are 10 tips to help you lead a healthy, balanced lifestyle. | |
1. Learn a new skill or hobby
2. Play games (puzzles, crosswords)
3. Go for a walk
4. Attend a music or art show
5. Reduce your blood pressure
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6. Reach out to a friend
7. Be smoke-free
8. Eat nutrient-rich foods
9. Make time for sufficient sleep
10. See your doctor
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Man For All Seasons
An Inspiring Fundraising Event
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In February 2024, for the second consecutive year, Brian Miller and his friends embarked on a remarkable journey, conquering a 50 km cross-country ski challenge in support of AGI. With unwavering enthusiasm, Brian rallied friends and family, harnessing their support for this extraordinary endeavor, all in tribute to his family. This heartfelt initiative raised over $3,000 in vital funds directed towards AGI programs dedicated to enriching the lives of people living with dementia and supporting their devoted caregivers. | |
“My five friends and I had a lot of fun skiing through Gatineau Park in February. Adding purpose to the event by fundraising for AGI just made everything that much more special. I really think the work AGI does, specifically with the day Centre, is incredible and indispensable for people touched by dementia and their families. The fact that their trained staff find ways to engage people in a difficult season of their life, week after week is truly inspirational. The least we can do is slog through the forest for 8hrs on a cold winter day and raise a little money.” - Brian Miller
A sincere thank you to Brian and all his friends for undertaking such a wonderful and
kind initiative!
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Community Outreach
Were you at the Fair?
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The Eva Marsden Centre for Social Justice and Aging (EMC) held its third Community Health Fair on Saturday March 2nd, 2024, in partnership with the Monkland Centre.
AGI was proud to be one of 27 community organizations present both as a resource, and to learn from fellow health and social organizations including representatives from the CIUSSS. We extend our thanks to the EMC for providing a space for information, exchange, and discussion on health and social services.
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Wednesday, March 27, 2024
AYA Restaurant
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Food and Drinks:
6 pm
Tournament:
7 pm
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All proceeds from the tournament will directly benefit people in
the Greater Montreal area living with dementia and their caregivers.
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Easter and Passover are just around the corner! |
Our beautiful selection of cards provides a meaningful way to convey your sentiments while contributing to AGI.
A thoughtful, personalized message printed on the Tribute Card will be sent to the recipient on your behalf. A tax receipt will be issued for $15 or more. Cards can be e-mailed or mailed.
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Come play on June 6, 2024 at Elm Ridge Country Club | |
Spring Forward
Sunday, March 10
St-Patrick's Day
Sunday, March 17
Spring Begins
Wednesday, March 20
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Purim Begins
Saturday, March 23
Good Friday
Friday, March 29 - Office Closed
Easter Sunday
Sunday, March 31
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Your donation to AGI today ensures that Montreal families continue to be well supported in a positive and caring way as they live with Alzheimer's disease or dementia. | |
Office Hours
Monday to Thursday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Charitable registration # 896090487RR0001
Alzheimer Groupe Inc (AGI) is a charitable organization that offers therapeutic programs to individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Additionally, AGI provides support services to families and professional care partners, focusing on best practices in dementia care, while sensitizing the community at large through education and awareness.
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