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January 09, 2012
A diagnosis of dementia can be hard to hear. We’re working together with health professionals to link individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia to a community of learning, services and support as early as possible in the disease process.
The Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s First Link® program is an option for a prescribed course of action available to families who have just received a diagnosis of dementia but is currently available in a limited number of B.C. communities.
In 2010, the BC Government provided $1 million to establish First Link® in five communities across the province. The first evaluator’s report suggested that:
- If even 1 per cent of First Link® referrals led to an enhanced uptake of caregiver support services, the program would likely be self-financing.
- A 5 percent referral rate would lead to net savings of approximately four times the direct program costs.
"We believe that our First Link® program is a tangible way to encourage early diagnosis," said Jean Blake, CEO of the Alzheimer Society of B.C. "As the only province-wide organization in B.C. to provide support and education for families impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, we want to deliver First Link® in every community across the province."
Help us ensure that families impacted by dementia receive support throughout the journey by:
- Reaching out to your MLA to encourage the government to support the expansion
- If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with dementia, ask your doctor for a formal referral to the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s First Link® program.
