Focusing on Young-onset Dementia

Interested in starting your own journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Cindy McCaffery, Co-Founder of YouQuest, located in Calgary, AB, Canada.

What's your organization, and who are your members?

YouQuest is a charity that supports people with young-onset dementia (diagnosed under age 65) with an active wellness day program. Our participants with dementia and their care partners are our clients.

Tell us about yourself

My husband John was diagnosed at age 48 with young-onset dementia and had to leave his career. There were no relevant supports for our family, so he spent hours alone while I was at work and became bored and isolated. I saw how he was energized and happier after being physically active, especially after being outdoors, so we held a pilot day program at a technical college under the direction of recreation therapists and with the help of volunteers. The pilot was a success, and we now operate two full-service days for 22 participants and are about to launch a pilot 1/2 day for those that find the full too strenuous.

Remembering how lonely and sad we were when John was first diagnosed with dementia is what motivates me to get others in our situation out into the community, actively enjoying time with friends.

What's your biggest accomplishment as an organization?

With the help of many others, we established a reputable, sustainable community where people with young-onset dementia and their families can come to find resources, support, and fun activities.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being an organization?

When our participants have to leave our service because of declining health, we feel the gap in our community very deeply and for a long time.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow an organization today?

Ensure that you are filling a gap in service.
Focus on your niche.
Ask your potential customers what they need.

Where can people find you and your group?

Website: https://youquest.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YouQuestCalgary/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/mccaffery_c
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clmccaffery/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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