Individual, Couple and Family Support

Direct support is provided to individuals, couples, families and in a group context. Our team provides informational, emotional and practical support by helping people work towards co-created goals to achieve a healthy balance within your circumstances and live better, live well with dementia.

Supports at RDS Canada are informed by the learning from the Rare Dementia Support Impact Study. We utilize a relationship-based approach that is inspired by the principles and practices of acceptance and commitment therapy.

All support is offered via telephone or virtually through the secure Zoom for Healthcare platform. If individuals need help and support in order to access the virtual platform, RDS Canada staff can provide telephone support to help you get set up.

Initial Support Call

All supportive services will begin with an initial support call. This is a first step in the co-creation of goals and we will discuss with you your information needs, current supports and any challenges you may be experiencing. These calls are always booked in advance. You can expect that the initial call may take 45 – 60 minutes of your time. These calls may be booked on the phone or via video, using the Zoom Platform. Please contact us if you would like to set up an initial support call.

Couple and Family Support

RDS Canada recognizes the importance of supportive interdependent relationships. Couple support is offered virtually. This is not limited to romantic partnerships and can also include a single person living on their own with primary care partner(s) who may be a friend or extended family member. Family support is also offered virtually to any grouping of family and may include discussions on topics such as:

• navigating health and support systems post diagnosis
• how to talk to others about a diagnosis
• navigating transitions as dementia progresses
• planning family holidays and celebrations
• sharing feelings

Family support may also include intergenerational conversations. These services may be tailored to the needs of an individual family and could include age-appropriate education to children on a particular diagnosis with coaching on how to improve interactions with a parent or extended family member with a diagnosis.