For family physicians and health care providers Working together to link individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease to a community of learning, services and support. First Link is a coordinated education and support initiative of the Alzheimer Society of Ottawa and Renfrew County, in collaboration with the Champlain Dementia Network. Family physicians, diagnosticians, social workers, nurses, occupational therapist, and other health care providers may refer clients directly to First Link. Each family you refer will receive: • a phone call from the First Link coordinator within 4 weeks • an information package including the Alzheimer Society of Ottawa and Renfrew County’s Family Guide to Dementia Care • information about learning series and support programs • regular mailings of First Link programs and services Referring clients to First Link: • ensures that families are connected early to education, support and services. • helps to reduce overall incidence and intensity of caregiving crisis situations. • helps to strengthen the link between diagnosing family physicians, the Champlain Dementia Network and community service providers • helps to increase effective and efficient use of community resources You can refer any client with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia and their family. Referrals are accepted by phone, fax or email. Please contact the First Link Coordinator with: • Name of person with dementia • Name of contact person & relationship • Phone number of contact person • Referral Form Additional information such as: diagnosis, date of diagnosis, addresses, date of birth, etc. is appreciated but not required. Alzheimer Society of Ottawa and Renfrew County 1750 Russell Road, Suite 1742, Ottawa, ON K1G 5Z6 Phone: 613-523-4004 -- Fax: 613-523-8522 Email: krobinson@asorc.org FAMILY PHYSICIANS Family Physician Referral Kit • Family physicians can easily refer patients to First Link with a First Link referral pad. Please contact First Link Coordinator to receive your referral kit today. First Link Physicians’ Dinners • First Link and the Alzheimer Society of Ottawa and Renfrew County frequently host information dinners for family physicians. • Next Dinner: Call us about your interest in being notified when date is confirmed. For more information, contact: Kelly Robinson, First Link Coordinator Alzheimer Society of Ottawa and Renfrew County Phone: 613-523-4004 -- Fax: 613-523-8522 Email: krobinson@asorc.org • Dementia Newsletter for Physicians: Information about clinical care, education and research on patients with memory loss. Current and past issues posted on the Champlain Dementia Network’s website at www.champlaindementianetwork.org Disponible en français.