As the world population rapidly increase in age, the number of persons living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias is also increasing and is expected to triple by 2050[1], making dementia a global challenge requiring worldwide attention. As those affected include care providers and loved ones[2], it is estimated that 1.1 million Canadian people are directly or indirectly affected by dementia[3]. This highlights the imminent need for more research and programs that provide support to persons living with dementia and their family members and caregivers.
To fill this need, the EntourAGE program was created. EntourAGE is a person-centred intergenerational volunteer program within the community, retirement homes and long-term care (LTC) homes where individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias can engage in one-on-one interactions with high school, college or university students, called companions in the program. The goals of the program are three-fold:
- impact the social engagement and quality of life of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias,
- impact students’ career aspirations towards working with older adults and those living with dementia, and on their attitudes towards this population, and
- evaluate the implementation, adoption, effectiveness, and sustainability of such an intergenerational program.
The program is a collaboration between the University of Ottawa, Dementia Society of Ottawa & Renfrew County and Champlain Dementia Network. Under the umbrealla of the EntourAGE program, three stream exist: Research, Non-research and Certificate only. The three-stream work together to provide flexibility and multiple options for individuals who want to join the program.