[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]March 7, 2023[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]

Have an awesome summer with us – Vecova’s Summer Day Camps Guide is now available!

Your children are going to love Vecova’s Summer Day Camps! They’ll spend the day doing fun, inclusive and exciting activities, including swimming in our warm saltwater pool. There’s Something for Every Body at Vecova – including your kids!

Vecova’s Summer Day Camps provide a safe, welcoming, inclusive environment where safety and fun for campers is our highest priority.
Every week is filled with learning, crafts, games, activities and lots of fun geared toward age-appropriate child development.
Campers will get to enjoy an awesome swimming playtime in our warm water pool throughout the week. The pool is reserved for the exclusive use of camps for 1 hour per day. Life jackets and increased leader ratios are provided to ensure safety.

Registration begins March 28 at 8:00 am. Check out the guide here.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][nd_options_button nd_options_padding=”15px 20px” nd_options_align=”center” nd_options_font_weight=”nd_options_font_weight_bold” nd_options_margin=”5px” nd_options_link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fvecova.ca%2Fsummer-2023-day-camps%2F|title:VIEW%20THE%20SUMMER%20CAMP%20GUIDE” nd_options_bg_color=”#f2a900″ nd_options_text_color=”#ffffff” nd_options_font_size=”20″ nd_options_border_radius=”20″][vc_single_image image=”9199″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https://vecova.ca/summer-2023-day-camps/”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]January 31, 2023[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_column_text]

Registration for Aquatics, Health and Fitness Spring 1 is now open!

Registration for Vecova’s Spring 1 swimming lessons and all registered programs is now open! Click here to view our inclusive lineup of programs and register through our online registration system.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

Registration Tips

As you know, our courses fill up quickly!

Registering online is the best way to try and secure a spot in your preferred course. Our classes generally are full within the first 5 minutes of registration, and that is often quicker than the queue in person or on the phone line.

In an effort to help you with online registration, we’ve collected some tips from community members like yourself to ensure a smooth registration process.

Create your account ahead of time.
Have your credit card information saved on your file.
Log on before 8:00 am and add the course you want to register for to your Wish List.
Click register when it is exactly 8:00 am on the day of registration
If a course is full, join the Waiting List.
Our online registration software is accurate when it comes to availability in all courses.
We recommend calling after 10:00 am on registration day for non-urgent questions or comments.
If a program is showing at capacity before registration opens, this could mean people have it in their cart and does not necessarily mean it is full. We still recommend trying to secure your spot.

Good luck – and we’ll see you at Vecova![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]January 13, 2023[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_column_text]

Find something for you! Vecova’s Spring 2023 Program Guide is now available!

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]It’s almost time to register for Spring 2023!

Registration for Spring 2023 swimming lessons and registered programs begins on January 31 at 8:00 a.m. The best way to register is through our online registration system.

As you know, our courses fill up quickly! Our classes are often full within the first 5 minutes of registration. Register online if you are able to – it’s faster than doing so in person or on the phone.

If you have any questions or concerns, please let us know. Good luck, and we can’t wait to see you at Vecova!

[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner css=”.vc_custom_1668808962932{background-image: url(https://vecova.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Everybody_006-scaled.jpg?id=8517) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}”][vc_column_inner][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”50″][nd_options_text nd_options_text_tag=”h2″ nd_options_text_align=”center” nd_options_text=”Spring 2023 Program Guide” nd_options_text_color=”#ffffff” nd_options_text_font_size=”40″][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”30″][nd_options_button nd_options_padding=”10px 20px” nd_options_align=”center” nd_options_link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fvecova.ca%2Fspring-2023-program-guide%2F|title:CLICK%20HERE|target:_blank” nd_options_bg_color=”#f2a900″ nd_options_text_color=”#ffffff” nd_options_font_size=”16″ nd_options_border_radius=”20″][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”50″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]December 15, 2022[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_single_image image=”8636″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://vecova.ca/holiday”][vc_column_text]

Everyone Belongs At Vecova

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]For many families who come to Vecova, the feeling of belonging starts once they join the Adapted Recreation program. These classes, which include programs for children, youth and adults, are for people who have barriers to sports and other fitness activities. It offers participants a place to gain skills and confidence in a safe, open, and inclusive environment.

For the Tran family, it’s become a place for 10-year-old Duc and 8-year-old An to grow.

When Hieu and his wife, Hong, first learned about the program, they were just simply looking for something for their kids to do on weekends. But now, thanks to the activities and the volunteers who work with the participants, it’s become the highlight of the week for their children.

“Even if I’m 5 minutes late, they both wait at the front door, ready to leave. They’re ready to go. We even cancelled our camping trips so that they won’t miss a class.”

To Hieu, his children’s positive experience is something that can only happen at Vecova. It’s why the Children’s Adapted Recreation program has meant so much to him and his wife.

Hieu compared it to other experiences he and his children have had. Other recreation centres can be overwhelming. They’re especially overwhelming for Duc, who has autism and is non-verbal, and for An, who has ADHD. Other facilities have larger class sizes, distracting wave pools, and instructors who may not be as well-trained in working with people with different abilities. These are things that he’s noticed make it more difficult for many children to focus.

But with Vecova’s Adapted Recreation program, the children get two full hours of activity in both the gym and pool with participants and instructors of all abilities.

“They never get bored. Some may have more fun in the gym, some may have more fun in the pool, but having both offered for two hours is the perfect mix and perfect length. Not too long, not too short.”

For Hieu, the highlight is the group of instructors who run the program, many of whom are volunteers. These individuals make connections with the children in the program. These instructors, some of whom have disabilities themselves, make sure that each child, no matter their ability or circumstance, feels like they belong.

“I know that we have peace of mind that we’ve left Duc and An with a capable group of instructors. It’s a good ratio of instructors to children, and the staff are well-trained. They can deal with any difficulties. It’s a safe place for my kids.”

He continued, “That’s one of the things we were most afraid of when we sent them to the group, especially Duc. He is kind of rigid in his ways. It’s really hard for him to join new or different groups,” Hieu explained. “But somehow, with these instructors, he has no issue with it. They’re all nice, so Duc is more open to interactions with other people. What I’m seeing is like his enlightenment.”

For families with children who have special needs or challenges, Hieu encourages them to consider the Adapted Recreation programs. There’s no better place to find inclusive programming, led by employees who care.

“I truly appreciate the instructors and the program. Vecova fits my family so well. My family belongs at Vecova.”[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”8636″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://vecova.ca/holiday”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]December 1, 2022[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_column_text]

Thank you for raising over $12,000 for Giving Tuesday!

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Wow! The Vecova community really made a splash for Giving Tuesday! You have shown us what generosity is all about. Thanks to our incredible donors, we raised $12,345 for our Aquatics program!

The funds raised will go straight back to the community by improving our programs and services. We’ll get even better and safer equipment so that everyone who comes to our pool – of all ages and abilities – has the best experience possible. A few things on our list include improved floatation devices, new snorkels and flippers and adaptive life jackets – but now that we’ve exceeded our $4,000 goal, we’re going to be able to do so much more!

Thank you for supporting Vecova’s pool and our work toward creating inclusive programming!

Warm regards,

Kyla Martin
Chief Development Officer[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner css=”.vc_custom_1668808962932{background-image: url(https://vecova.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Everybody_006-scaled.jpg?id=8517) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}”][vc_column_inner][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”50″][nd_options_text nd_options_text_tag=”h2″ nd_options_text_align=”center” nd_options_text=”Winter 2023 Program Guide” nd_options_text_color=”#ffffff” nd_options_text_font_size=”40″][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”30″][nd_options_button nd_options_padding=”10px 20px” nd_options_align=”center” nd_options_link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fvecova.ca%2Fwinter-2023-program-guide%2F|title:CLICK%20HERE|target:_blank” nd_options_bg_color=”#f2a900″ nd_options_text_color=”#ffffff” nd_options_font_size=”16″ nd_options_border_radius=”20″][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”50″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]November 18, 2022[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_column_text]

Winter 2023 Program Guide is now live!

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]It’s almost time to register for Winter 2023!

Registration for Winter 2023 swimming lessons and registered programs begins on November 29 at 8:00 am. The best way to register is through our online registration system.

Registration Tips

Michelle Thompson, our Acting Aquatics, Health and Fitness Operations Manager, shared some useful tips and answered some frequently asked questions on our Instagram. We’ve highlighted these on our profile, so check it out – instagram.com/wearevecova.

If you have any questions or concerns, please let us know. Good luck, and we can’t wait to see you at Vecova!

[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner css=”.vc_custom_1668808962932{background-image: url(https://vecova.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Everybody_006-scaled.jpg?id=8517) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}”][vc_column_inner][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”50″][nd_options_text nd_options_text_tag=”h2″ nd_options_text_align=”center” nd_options_text=”Winter 2023 Program Guide” nd_options_text_color=”#ffffff” nd_options_text_font_size=”40″][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”30″][nd_options_button nd_options_padding=”10px 20px” nd_options_align=”center” nd_options_link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fvecova.ca%2Fwinter-2023-program-guide%2F|title:CLICK%20HERE|target:_blank” nd_options_bg_color=”#f2a900″ nd_options_text_color=”#ffffff” nd_options_font_size=”16″ nd_options_border_radius=”20″][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”50″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]October 11, 2022[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_column_text]

There’s Something For Every Body at Vecova!

Ryan, Aurora, Sarah Jane and Ashaan have one thing in common – they know that fitness is for everyone at Vecova!

We have Something For Every Body at Vecova’s Aquatics, Health and Fitness – inclusive programs for you, your family and friends. Our programs are made for people of every comfort, ability and skill level to help you meet your wellness goals. Discover the right program for you today![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Try a free class from October 17-22!

To celebrate, we’re offering a free drop-in class week! From October 17 to 22, try a class at Vecova for absolutely free! To participate, sign up in advance here. Your registration will be confirmed by a member of our team.[/vc_column_text][nd_options_button nd_options_padding=”8px 12px” nd_options_align=”center” nd_options_font_weight=”nd_options_font_weight_bold” nd_options_link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fforms.office.com%2Fpages%2Fresponsepage.aspx%3Fid%3DdLRntoK790ymhuawD01HXrB_9Rr_aHdIopsNgzFHaW9UMFdaRThHM1YyV04wUUdOUlk2VTI2NUlGVCQlQCN0PWcu|title:REGISTER%20HERE!|target:_blank” nd_options_bg_color=”#f2a900″ nd_options_text_color=”#ffffff” nd_options_border_radius=”5″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”8181″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://vecova.ca/aquaticshealthfitness/open-drop-in-week-october-17-22-2022/”][vc_column_text]

View the full schedule here.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]You help Vecova create #InclusionForEveryone every time you sign up for a program at Vecova’s Aquatics, Health and Fitness.

All proceeds support our housing, employment, wellness, mental health services and more for persons with disabilities to build a world where everyone is valued, belongs and thrives.

We have more exciting news coming soon! Keep an eye on our website and social media for updates, stories and ways that you can get involved.

See you at Vecova![/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]August 9, 2022[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_column_text]

Registration for Vecova’s Fall Session 1 2022 programs is now open!

Registration for Fall Session 1 (September-October) 2022 swimming lessons and all registered programs is now open! Click here to view our inclusive lineup of programs and register through our online registration system.

We’re happy to announce that we are now offering Swim For Life programs from the Lifesaving Society at Vecova! View our registration tips, more information about the transition to Swim For Life programs and details about our temporary facility closure below!

Swim For Life is coming to Vecova!

Vecova’s Aquatics, Health and Fitness is now offering Swim for Life swimming lessons from the Lifesaving Society!

View our chart and more information about our Swim for Life programs at vecova.ca/swimforlife

[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

Red Cross Swim to Swim for Life Conversion Chart (PDF Download)

[pdf-embedder url=”https://vecova.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/AHF_Swim-Levels-Chart_Draft2.pdf” title=”Red Cross Swim to Swim for Life Conversion Chart”][/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text]

Registration Tips

As you know, our courses fill up quickly!

In an effort to help you with online registration, we’ve collected some tips from community members like yourself to ensure a smooth registration process.

Create your account ahead of time.
Have your credit card information saved on your file.
Log on before 8:00 am and add the course you want to register for to your Wish List.
Click register when it is exactly 8:00 am on the day of registration
If a course is full, join the Waiting List.
Our online registration software is accurate when it comes to availability in all courses.
We recommend calling after 10:00 am on registration day for non-urgent questions or comments.
If a program is showing at capacity before registration opens, this could mean people have it in their cart and does not necessarily mean it is full. We still recommend trying to secure your spot.

Temporary Facility Closure

Vecova’s Aquatics, Health and Fitness will be closed from August 26, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. to September 12, 2022 at 7:45 a.m. so that we can perform regular facility maintenance and upgrades to the facility to provide a better and more accessible facility for our consumers.

Thank you for your understanding and we can’t wait to welcome you back when we open on September 12! If you have any questions or concerns, please let us know.

See you at Vecova![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]August 3, 2022[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_column_text]

Get ready for our Fall 2022 programs at Vecova’s Aquatics, Health and Fitness!

Discover our exciting new lineup of Fall 2022 programs at Vecova’s Aquatics, Health and Fitness!

Click here to view our inclusive swimming lessons and registered programs for Fall Session 1 (September-October) and Fall Session 2 (November-December).

Registration for our Fall Session 1 (September-October) swimming lessons and all other registered programs opens on August 9, 2022 at 8:00 a.m.
Registration for our Fall Session 2 (November-December) swimming lessons and all other registered programs opens on September 27, 2022 at 8:00 a.m.

Swim For Life is coming to Vecova!

Vecova’s Aquatics, Health and Fitness is now offering Swim for Life swimming lessons from the Lifesaving Society!

We will no longer be offering Red Cross swimming lessons at our facility and have created a swimming lessons conversion chart to help you discover which Swim for Life program is the best fit for your child. Click on the chart below to view it in full size. Discover more information about our Swim for Life programs at vecova.ca/swimforlife

[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

Red Cross Swim to Swim for Life Conversion Chart (PDF Download)

Registration Tips

As you know, our courses fill up quickly!

In an effort to help you with online registration, we’ve collected some tips from community members like yourself to ensure a smooth registration process.

Create your account ahead of time.
Have your credit card information saved on your file.
Log on before 8:00 am and add the course you want to register for to your Wish List.
Click register when it is exactly 8:00 am on the day of registration
If a course is full, join the Waiting List.
Our online registration software is accurate when it comes to availability in all courses.
We recommend calling after 10:00 am on registration day for non-urgent questions or comments.
If a program is showing at capacity before registration opens, this could mean people have it in their cart and does not necessarily mean it is full. We still recommend trying to secure your spot.

We value your continued support. If you have any questions or concerns, please let us know.

See you at Vecova!

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]July 11, 2022[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text]

Vecova’s Dementia Wellness Program supports the wellbeing of people of all ages and abilities

Over 500,000 Canadians have dementia today and 1 in 5 Canadians have experience caring for someone with dementia. The number of Canadians with dementia is predicted to rise to 912,000 by 2030 and the need for programs to support both those with dementia and their caregivers is more urgent than ever.

In January 2022, Vecova and the Alzheimer Society of Calgary met this need with the Dementia Wellness Program. In partnership with the University of Calgary, the program acted as a research study on the benefits of physical and cognitive exercises for older adults with dementia.

When the research study ended, Vecova still wanted to respond to the increased need for support for people with dementia and their caregivers. So the program continued, with the Alzheimer Society of Calgary, meeting our goal of creating an inclusive community that supports the good health and wellbeing of people of all ages and abilities.

More than just a program

Vecova’s Dementia Wellness Program is a tailored physical and cognitive exercise program for older adults with memory problems. Participants in the program meet bi-weekly to connect with each other and try new exercises and activities designed to stimulate their brains.

But there’s more to it than just activities – it’s also become a supportive community, for both the participants and their caregivers.

“We spend the first forty-five minutes getting settled, having a chat, seeing how everyone’s doing,” shares Heather Burke, the program leader. “We have a theme of the week. For example, this week we’re going to be talking about Canada Day. We also break into teams and play trivia games.”

After socializing, the participants head to Vecova’s Strength and Conditioning Room, where they work on their individual fitness plans before joining a group stretching session. Once the fitness session is over, the fun continues.

“We play more games, have more discussions and we play music. We do things that try to spark an emotion or a fond memory for them,” says Heather. “Everyone is in different stages. We try to do activities that include everyone and adapt them so that everyone will get something out of it.”

According to Peter, a participant in the program, it has already made a difference in his life.

“(The program has) played an important role in my health improvement and recovery with cardio and strengthening exercises as well as cognitive activities,” says Peter. “The challenges to my mental ability led me to areas that I have not experienced before such as visual arts.”

Peter continues, “This has been a discovery journey and has led me to think outside the box. For all that I have experienced during this program, I am grateful and appreciative to all of you, especially your friendly, caring attitudes and services to all the participants.”

Our impact on caregivers

It is just as important to create inclusive programs for caregivers to support their emotional and social wellbeing. In 2018, 25% of Canadians aged 15 or older reported that they had cared for or helped someone with a long-term health condition, physical or mental disability or problems related to aging such as dementia. Unmet caregiving support needs are associated with increased daily stress and a decrease in mental health that can result in burnout and fatigue.

Vecova’s Dementia Wellness Program provides a welcoming space for caregivers to connect with and support each other. Heather and Ali Cada, from the Alzheimer Society of Calgary, coordinate activities such as visual arts for caregivers to enjoy while participants are in the program.

“While my husband enjoys time with his group on various brain and exercise activities, I can spend time with my support group of caregivers and Ali,” shares Kris, Peter’s wife. “Through many conversations, we have shared our experiences, resources and stories.”

Caregivers are invited to take part in a variety of activities during the Dementia Wellness Program in support of their mental health and wellbeing.

“The highlight of the gatherings has been the visual arts provided by Ali. I can let go of my worries and focus on the moment and de-stress, whether through painting or drawing,” Kris says. “Ali’s positive outlook and encouraging words to use visual arts has improved my mental wellness and made me want to learn more. As a caregiver, I look forward to these weekly sessions.”

The impact that the Dementia Wellness Program has made on both its participants and their caregivers is what Heather likes the most about leading the program.

“Sometimes at the start of the day, some participants might come in a bit disoriented or confused. We’ll start playing certain kinds of music and then all of a sudden they say ‘that’s the Beach Boys’ and start dancing,” says Heather. “We get to witness that clarity and total enjoyment of the moment, and it’s just such a great feeling.”[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][nd_options_button nd_options_padding=”15px 35px” nd_options_align=”center” nd_options_font_weight=”nd_options_font_weight_bold” nd_options_margin=”5px” nd_options_font_family=”nd_options_first_font” nd_options_link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fvecova.ca%2Fget-involved%2Fdonate%2F|title:DONATE%20HERE” nd_options_bg_color=”#f2a900″ nd_options_text_color=”#ffffff” nd_options_font_size=”16″ nd_options_border_radius=”20″][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text]

Vecova is committed to creating inclusive, accessible and high-quality programs and services for persons with disabilities. We are prioritizing inclusion and building a future for people of all abilities where everyone is valued, belongs and thrives.

Your gift during Disability Pride Month can help us accomplish #InclusionForEveryone. A gift to Vecova of $35, $50, $100, or whatever you can manage, allows us to keep working towards #InclusionForEveryone.

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