[News] Fostering Connection and Engagement: Compassionate Dementia-Inclusive Community Initiative Spans the Country

United Way BC is excited to be a knowledge translation partner on a pan-Canadian initiative building capacity for people living with dementia to stay active, connected, and engaged.

A research team from the University of British Columbia-Okanagan (UBC-O), in collaboration with the BC Centre for Palliative Care (BCCPC), and dementia-inclusive experts from UBC Vancouver, has launched a multi-sectoral project from the West Coast of BC all the way to Newfoundland. This project ties together three key social health movements—Compassionate Communities, Dementia-Friendly Communities, and Volunteer Navigation (Nav-CARE: Navigation, Connecting, Advocating, Resourcing, Engaging) —to reduce stigma, enhance awareness, and provide meaningful support and opportunities for individuals living with dementia to continue participating fully in their communities.

With support from Health Canada and leadership from Dr. Barb Pesut at UBC-O, the initiative is working alongside six Canadian organizations to develop, implement, and evaluate these programs. The team has created a comprehensive toolkit to help communities establish and sustain these efforts. This resource offers practical steps for fostering strong relationships, facilitating meaningful conversations, launching supportive programs, and ensuring long-term success.

At the heart of this initiative is the power of social connection. Partner organizations have established leadership teams to collaborate with localized advisory boards composed of key community members—including individuals living with dementia and their care partners. These groups will design and implement community-driven interventions tailored to the unique needs of the people they serve. Volunteers, trained through the internationally recognized Nav-CARE program, will play a crucial role in helping individuals and families navigate resources, access support, and stay engaged and informed.

Over the next year, these activities will generate valuable insights into how compassionate, dementia-inclusive communities can enhance quality of life for people living with dementia. By prioritizing social engagement, meaningful connections, and active participation, this work is helping to create a more supportive and inclusive society—where everyone can thrive at every stage of life.