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We collect basic website visitor information on this website and store it in cookies. We also utilize Google Analytics to track page view information to assist us in improving our website.
From time to time, the Waterloo Region Family Network (WRFN) is asked to distribute information on behalf of third parties. WRFN provides general information to self-advocates and families of children with special needs. The information provided on this website is not a recommendation, referral or endorsement of any resource, therapeutic method, or service provider. WRFN is not responsible for any information or services provided by third parties. You are urged to use independent judgment when considering any resource.
Brain Health & Healthy Aging: Family Caregiver Course Starts March 5th!
Join Our Online Brain Health-IDD Research Study
for Family Caregivers!
Our six-week Brain Health-IDD program offers practical strategies to promote healthy aging and reduce dementia risks.
What you'll learn:
✅ How to support brain health for yourself and your family member
✅ Tools for managing physical and mental health
✅ Navigating change and planning for the future
✅ Dementia screening and assessment resources
✅ Opportunities to connect with other families across Canada
Who can participate?
Family Caregivers 60 years+ caring for an adult with IDD
OR
Sibling/family member (any age) of an adult with IDD aged 40 years+
Dates & Times
Every Wednesday
March 5-April 9, 2025
2:30 PM to 4:00 PM EST
We are also offering courses for adults with IDD
and service providers!
Email us at brainhealthIDD@camh.ca
Interested? Click here to fill out the Study Form
ECHO Ontario Adult Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Helping long-stay inpatients transition from hospital to home (the ALC problem)
Calling all health and social service providers to join us for an overview of Alternate Level of Care (ALC) – the problem and some solutions for people with developmental disabilities.
Dates & Time
Friday, February 28, 2025
9:30 am to 11:00 AM EST
Location
Online (Zoom)
Click here to register
Blog Post: February: A Month Celebrating Love, Family, and Caregiving
Who cares? We all should!
In her latest blog post, Dr. Yona Lunsky explores the themes of caregiving and identity, inspired by Who Cares: A Podcast About Caregiving in Canada. She highlights the importance of "care-full" conversations in caregiving, and the need for a caring community. As Canada prepares to unveil its first National Caregiving Strategy, Dr. Lunsky encourages us to join the conversation by attending the Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence's National Caregiving Strategy for Canada Webinar on February 19th.
Click here to read the Blog Post
Podcast: Turning the Page on Autism Research with Dr. Yona Lunsky and Dr. Meng-Chuan Lai
Autism research is evolving—and so is the conversation. In this episode of the ICES podcast, In Our VoICES, Dr. Yona Lunsky and Dr. Meng-Chuan Lai discuss how autism research has moved beyond diagnosis and treatment to focus on improving the daily lives and healthcare experiences of autistic individuals.
Tune in for a discussion on the real challenges faced by the autistic community—healthcare barriers, sensory needs, and communication hurdles—and the importance of empathy, acceptance, and collaboration in building a more inclusive and accessible system.
Click here to listen to the Podcast
ACT Workshop for Leaders in the Developmental Services Sector
Are you a leader, manager, or supervisor employed at an agency that provides support to individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities in Canada?
Join our 3-session virtual workshop centered on evidence-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy/ Training (ACT) strategies. It is part of a research study exploring how best to support staff in the sector. View our study flyer.
Dates & Time
April 1, 6:30 - 7:30 PM (Orientation)
April 8, April 15, and May 13
6:30 - 8:30 PM
Location
Online
For more information, email PACT@camh.ca
Interested? Click here to fill out the Study Form
Upcoming Virtual Mindfulness Programs
Mindfulness for Family Caregivers and Care Providers
Are you a family caregiver, healthcare leader, or frontline professional? Take 30 minutes a week to recharge, reduce stress, and practice mindfulness. View our Flyer.
Program Highlights:
Sessions led by mindfulness expert Sue Hutton, MSW
Audio links and resources to support your practice
No cost to participate!
Dates & Time
Every Wednesday
March 19-April 9, 2025
12:30--1:00 PM EST
Location
Online
Click here to register
Webinar: Scaling Up Medical Education for Disability-Inclusive Healthcare
Join the conversation to help shape Canada's future of inclusive healthcare
Join this free webinar to explore how medical education can be transformed to better support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Featuring two expert speakers and a dynamic panel discussion, this session will provide valuable insights and practical strategies.
Dates & Time
Friday, February 28, 2025
12:30--2:00 PM EST
Location
Online (Zoom)
Click here to regiser
