Vancouver, BC — March 26, 2026
📸 Moments from the Evening
Authors, supporters, and community members gathered at the launch
Celebration cake reading “Living well with Dementia.”
Living Well Storybook QR Order Cards displayed on tables with celebratory bubbly
The event brought together advocates, researchers, family council leaders, and caregivers for an evening that blended storytelling, education, and heartfelt reflection. Representatives from the Independent Long-Term Care Councils Association of BC (ILTCCABC), including Lisa Dawson, and the Vancouver Coastal Association of Family Councils (VCAFC), represented by Eric Li, attended to show support and share information about the role of family councils in long-term care.
Lived Experience at the Heart of the Stories
A moving panel discussion featured the co-creators of the books—each of whom has lived experience caring for a loved one diagnosed with dementia whose final chapter unfolded in long-term care. Their reflections revealed how the long-term care experience, separate from the dementia journey itself, adds a complex and often under-recognized layer to the caregiver’s burden.
The discussion underscored how essential education and accessible information are for caregivers navigating this path, and how these books can serve as practical tools for guidance and conversation.
Stories Grounded in Research and Real Choices
The series is rooted in research exploring the life choices faced by people living with dementia. The stories are designed as gentle conversation starters, helping families discuss difficult topics and understand the implications of decisions that affect quality of life through to the end of life.
For many in attendance, the books offered not only insight but a new way to approach these conversations with clarity and compassion.
A spotlight on a writer and family council supporter:
One of the principal writers, Gloria McArter, was recognized for both her contribution to the books and her long-standing involvement with family council advocacy, including early contributions to the Fraser Association of Family Councils. Now in her late 70s and still practicing as a psychologist-counsellor and mentor, Gloria describes herself as a “lifelong student” who embraces the benefits of the “3 C’s”: connection, conversation, and curiosity—principles that deeply resonated throughout the evening.
An Evening of Reflection, Learning, and Inspiration
The venue provided more than just a setting. Attendees were treated to a lovely meal, a celebratory non-alcoholic bubbly, and a cake dedicated to the occasion. The atmosphere matched the purpose of the gathering: thoughtful, welcoming, and community-driven.
By the end of the evening, guests who left were inspired to read the books and consider how they might be used as supportive tools for family caregivers of people living with dementia.
Many also left reflecting on the idea of “compassionate curiosity”—a communication approach that closely aligns with appreciative inquiry and offers promise for improving communication outcomes in long-term care settings.
The Living Well Storybooks launch succeeded not only in introducing a meaningful new resource but in strengthening a shared commitment to supporting people living with dementia and those who care for them—with connection, conversation, and curiosity leading the way.
