Alzheimer Society of TorontoAlzheimer Society - Connexion
Weekly eNewsletter: March 23 - 27
Hello, Reader!
The Alzheimer Society of Toronto is here for you. This week, we’ve compiled more tips, resources, and ways you can be engaged during any period of isolation. Please share this newsletter with others and, as always, we would love to hear your feedback about the newsletter and if this is a useful source of information!
All the best,
Scott Russell
CEO, Alzheimer Society Toronto
Connections That Matter
During this time, our phone lines remain open. If you need to reach our counselling staff, or have questions about programs and services, please call 416-322-6560.
If you have feedback or suggestions for this newsletter, please contact us at write@alz.to.
Happy reading!
In this edition:
Chat with Us!
Webinar: Dementia & COVID-19 - Strategies for Caregivers, March 26 & April 1
Gentle Fitness Online
Fun Online Activities
Breathing Exercises to Ease Anxiety
News Worth Celebrating
Chat With Us!
Make yourself comfortable, grab a cup of coffee or tea and join some of the Alzheimer Society of Toronto staff and peers online to say ‘hello’ and let us know how you and your loved ones are doing during the COVID-19 outbreak. We’ll be online via Zoom each day at the times below. Click the links below to join!
If you have any questions about using Zoom, please contact Romina Oliverio at roliverio@alz.to or refer to this step-by-step guide on how to use Zoom here.
Please note: Due to privacy and confidentiality, we will not be able to address personal client matters during the chat, but will be happy to connect you with a care navigator or social worker who will be able to support you.
Webinar: Dementia & COVID-19 - Strategies for Caregivers
This webinar will focus on providing caregivers with strategies to providing care while in isolation. It will also highlight important COVID-19 precautions and guidelines along with the implications in caring for someone living with dementia. Click on the links below to register.
Join us for a 1-hour online session of Gentle Fitness on Tuesday, March 31 at 10:00 AM!
This program uses easy to follow movements to build strength and flexibility while conditioning your body. The sessions are adapted and sensitive to all levels of agility and are suitable for individuals who want the support of being seated throughout the class. Please wear comfortable clothing and footwear.
Please note: You will need an internet connection and a Zoom software to participate. Upon registration and closer to the date, you will be emailed instructions on how to setup the software and access the session.
To register for this free class, please click here.
Fun Online Activities
Get Your Smile On
Who couldn’t use an extra dose of good news!? The popular website, The Good News Network, has been sharing positive stories from around the world for the last 20 years. Click here for some uplifting and inspiring stories!
Comic Strips Online
Who remembers the simple joy of turning to the back of the newspaper to read the comic strips? Well, now you can find some of these beloved strips online. Check out the links below for a nostalgic throwback and a laugh.
We understand you may be facing unexpected challenges these days during the COVID-19 outbreak. Self-care is critical for managing stress levels, but we may not always have much time on our hands to do it. Below are two simple and quick breathing exercises that can help in easing anxiety.
4-7-8 Measured Breathing
Take a deep breath slowly through your nose and count to 4
Hold your breath and count to 7
Exhale through your mouth and count to 8
Repeat at least 4 times
Belly Breathing
Sit or lie down in a comfortable position
Put one hand on your belly, below your ribs, and put the other hand on your chest
Take a deep breath slowly through your nose and inflate your belly (your chest should not move, only your belly)
Slowly breathe out through your mouth with pursed lips (like you are whistling) and deflate your belly (blow all the air out)
Repeat at least 4 times
News Worth Celebrating
People are staying active even in isolation!
Two of our client’s wanted to say hello to our readers and share that even in isolation, they can stay active by participating in at home exercises!
Share what you are doing while in isolation by using the hashtag #OurConnectionsMatter or emailing us at write@alz.to and we could feature your activity in a future version of our e-newsletter!
Spot the Super Pink Moon & the First Full Moon of Spring!
Enjoy the beauty nature has to offer from the comfort of your home by peeking out the window or taking a step outside on Tuesday, April 7 to catch a glimpse of April’s full Pink moon. This supermoon will be visible after sunset and reach peak illumination at 10:35 PM EDT. More details about the supermoon can be found here.
People living with Alzheimer’s and dementia are especially vulnerable at this time, if you are able to, please consider supporting the essential services and programs that benefit this community.
