What is First Link?

First Link is a referral program aimed at helping to link people affected by Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia (ADRD), as well as their partners in care, to a wide variety of services and supports offered through the Alzheimer Society and within the community. Often people are overwhelmed by the diagnosis and may be reluctant to access support. First Link seeks to remove this barrier by making the initial connection to support for them. This is accomplished by providing access to services early in the diagnosis in an effort to reduce the incidence and intensity of crisis situations.

• First Link will provide one-on-one support to families.
• First Link will provide education about what to expect throughout the progression of the disease and how to cope.
• First Link ensures individuals are connected to the appropriate resources in the community.
• First Link referral partners would include Primary Care Practitioners, Geriatric Specialists, Community Health Centres, Nurse Practitioners and Memory Clinics.

How it Works

During your visit with your Health Care provider, individuals are informed about the First Link program provided by Alzheimer Society of Durham Region (ASDR) and are asked whether they would like a direct referral to ASDR. With consent, the referral is then sent to us. The First Link Coordinator follows up within the time frame specified by the client. 

 

What We Do

The First Link Coordinator will call the referred individual(s), giving them an opportunity to ask questions about the disease. The First Link Coordinator will also offer literature about dementia and provide information on programs and services offered by Alzheimer Society of Durham Region, as well as other community supports. This program is unique, in that it allows First Link to reach out to the families as opposed to waiting for families to call First Link. First Link connects families to these services throughout the continuum of their journey.


Benefits of the First Link Program

Our aim is to empower care partners and persons with dementia to become active participants in their care through the information, education, and support that we offer. It is our hope that this initiative will have a direct result in crisis reduction for families. We are thrilled to offer the First Steps Learning Series and Early Stage Support Groups in Durham Region. and look forward to bringing more news to you as the program expands.

 

Print Referral Form

Click here to print referral form.

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