Shifting Mindsets: This year's Dementia Care Conference

Every October, we look forward to welcoming people from across Nova Scotia to our annual conference at the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia.

The conference brings together individuals who share a commitment to enhancing the lives of people living with dementia, their families, care partners and communities. By sharing knowledge, exploring new approaches and learning from one another, we hope to strengthen and advance dementia care across the sector.

Our full-day conference offers a space to connect, learn and exchange ideas with others working across the dementia care sector. Through thought-provoking presentations, panel discussions, and opportunities to speak with exhibitors, attendees can explore emerging research, practical approaches, and new perspectives that can inform their work.

“This year’s theme, Shifting Mindsets, recognizes that dementia care is not static,” says Sacha Nadeau, conference chair at the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia. “The people we support are constantly changing, and so are the relationships, experiences, strengths, and challenges that shape their lives. As those realities evolve alongside them, we are called to evolve alongside them, remaining open to new perspectives and possibilities for dementia care.”

This year’s conference will take place on October 20 at the Cedar Event Centre in Halifax. We are thrilled to have Dr. Elaine Wiersma join us as our keynote speaker to talk about dementia in the outdoors and taking risks to enhance quality of life. She is an associate professor in the department of health sciences and a researcher at the Centre for Education and Research on Aging & Health at Lakehead University, Ontario.

From insightful presentations to interactive learning, this year’s program offers many opportunities to explore new ideas and approaches to dementia care. Attendees will also have the chance to participate in a trivia activity to learn about the latest in dementia treatments.

Our 2026 conference will also mark the fifth annual Promising Practices Showcase, presented by Shannex. The showcase highlights inspiring work in dementia care across Nova Scotia, offering an opportunity to learn from others’ experiences in the field.

As we come together for this year’s conference, our hope is that attendees leave with new ideas to bring into their work, new connections within the sector, and renewed inspiration for the important work of supporting people affected by dementia.

Our conference will be livestreamed, allowing you to take part from wherever you are. Some sessions will be available after the event as well. To learn more and reserve your spot, visit alzheimer.ca/ns/conference.

If you have questions or need support, our knowledgeable and caring staff are ready to help. Contact our dementia helpline at 1-800-611-6345.

Shealene Barrett is the regional coordinator of education and outreach, Cape Breton, Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia