Access dementia nurses through Health Link by calling 811

Free service offers effective strategies for patients, caregivers and families

CALGARY – Whether you are a person living with dementia, a concerned family member of someone diagnosed with dementia, or a caregiver, you don’t have to deal with the stress and strain of managing a dementia diagnosis on your own. There is support available, 24/7.

Dementia advice accessed by calling Health Link can assist in navigating the dementia journey by connecting you with resources, answering questions, offering education and, most importantly, listening to your individual situation.

When you call 811, the Health Link nurse will ask questions about your situation to address any immediate concerns, and then refer you to a specialized dementia advice nurse who is trained in supporting people living with dementia, as well as their caregivers. The dementia advice nurse will call back within 72 hours of your call to Health Link, and will discuss what type of support you need specific to your situation.

The dementia nurse service responds to the diverse needs of persons diagnosed with dementia, as well as their care partners, and ensures advice, education, information on community resources and emotional support, is easily accessible.

Since 2015, Health Link has made more than 2,500 referrals to the dementia nurse service.

To access the service, please call Health Link, provincewide at 811.

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.