A free, in-person workshop titled ABC’s of Dementia is coming to Notre Dame de Lourdes on Friday, April 25th at 1:30 p.m., offering rural Manitobans a unique opportunity to gain practical, easy-to-understand education on dementia. Hosted by the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, the event requires no registration and will include refreshments courtesy of local volunteers.
Demystifying dementia: The basics you need to know
Rebecca Atkinson of the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba will be leading the session, bringing her passion and expertise to the community.
“ABC’s is meant to mean all the basics in the most practical way possible,” explained Atkinson. “Dementia is an umbrella term. It affects multiple parts of your brain—your behavior, mood, and function in daily life. Understanding that is the first step.”
The event is designed to reach not only caregivers and healthcare professionals but also friends, neighbors, and family members who may be noticing changes in someone close to them.
“It's the more people understand the basics—even just a little snippet—the more dementia-friendly we can become as communities,” Atkinson said. “All of a sudden, your workplace says, ‘Oh, we need some new signs,’ and you can say, ‘I heard that we can make sure the environment's accessible for people living with dementia.’”
A workshop for everyone
While the title may sound like it’s for beginners, the ABC’s of Dementia event is for anyone wanting to better support those living with dementia.
“This is really for family members, friends, and neighbors who are saying, ‘My friend is changing, and I don’t quite understand how to talk to her anymore,’” Atkinson shared. “Or maybe your dad is far away, and he’s losing his license—how do you manage those phone calls?”
Atkinson emphasized the welcoming, interactive nature of the session. “I will be there. Ask all your questions. I will stay until everybody’s needs are met.”
Supporting small towns with big conversations
The event is being hosted by Club d’Âge d’Or at the Notre Dame Senior Centre, with hopes that people from surrounding rural communities will attend.
“I love that it’s in Notre Dame,” said Atkinson. “Sometimes you don’t want to make the trip to the big city of Winkler. Let’s do some things outside of Winkler. This is a chance for small communities to come together.”
Why it matters
Beyond just awareness, Atkinson believes education is key to improving the quality of life for people with dementia and their caregivers.
“We have a lot of power in our response. Quality of life can be improved with action,” she said. “Everybody has something to offer.”
Event Details:
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Date: Friday, April 25, 2025
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Time: 1:30 p.m.
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Location: Notre Dame Senior Centre, Notre Dame de Lourdes
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Cost: Free
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Extras: Refreshments provided
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More info: www.alzheimer.mb.ca
Whether you’re a caregiver, a healthcare worker, or someone who just wants to better support a loved one or community member, this event offers the tools and understanding to make a real difference.