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Social, fitness program helps get Minds In Motion®

Kelowna residents experiencing early memory loss can get their Minds in Motion® this summer.

A fitness and social program offered by the non-profit Alzheimer Society of B.C., Minds in Motion® runs Monday afternoons from Aug. 10 through Sept. 14 in Kelowna

The physical and cognitive workout is designed for people in the early stages of Alzheimer disease or another dementia.

"The program aims to help people stay physically active, meet and socialize with others living with dementia, get involved in activities, and have access to information about dementia and services," explains Amber Graydon, the Society's Minds in Motion® Coordinator for Kelowna and the Central/North Okanagan.

Participants, accompanied by a friend, family member or caregiver, enjoy light exercise conducted by a certified fitness instructor, followed by activities or games and social time in a relaxed atmosphere. Light refreshments are provided.

“The benefits are many,” says Graydon. People with dementia see physical gains such as improved balance, mobility and flexibility, and increased comfort and confidence in their situation. For care partners, benefits include more core strength and flexibility, an increased understanding of both dementia and self-care, and learning new coping strategies from peers.

"It's something participants look forward to - a reason to get out of the house - and a topic to talk about afterwards," she says.

Minds in Motion® runs weekly on Mondays from 1:15 to 3 p.m. and the next session runs Aug. 10 through Sept. 14 at Parkinson Recreation Centre's Macintosh Room, 1800 Parkinson Way. Cost is just $27.50 per couple for the five-week program (no class on Sept. 7).

To register contact the recreation centre at 250-469-8800 or online at www.kelowna.ca/recreation (course code 143318).

For more information, call the Alzheimer Resource Centre at 250-860-0305.

For more information on Alzheimer's disease and other dementias visit www.alzheimerbc.org.