Arissa Schmid of the Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories sorts pamphlets in this undated file photo. January is Alzheimer's Awareness month and the organization hopes to spread the word on all the services and support it provides.--NEWS FILE PHOTO
The Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories is shining the light on the important work it does supporting people living with dementia.
January is national Alzheimer’s Awareness month. The society says there are more than half a million Canadians living with dementia today and they expect that number grow to 1.7 million by 2050.
In Alberta the society reports more than 59,000 Albertans are living with dementia. The society would like to remind those Albertans and their families that help is available.
Alzheimer’s disease is progressive and typically begins with mild memory loss and can lead to the loss of the ability to have a conversation and respond to the surrounding environment. It affects parts of the brain that control though, memory and language.
The society says it is able to connect people living with dementia to care partners and offer free support, and provide patients a sense of community.
“When you reach out to one of our seven locations throughout Alberta and Northwest Territories, you gain access to free dementia-friendly expertise and resources to help you feel understood and supported,” Dr. George Andrews, president and CEO, said in a press release.
The Society’s First Link program offers services like information about risk reduction, living well with dementia as well as the latest research and advocacy efforts.
It also provides referrals to programs to help manage the challenges that dementia can present.
The society offers an early intervention program that connects people living with dementia and care partners to resources that can help plan for their journey ahead.
It also offers hybrid support groups that offer practical coping strategies and free educational resources tailored toward family members providing care.
To learn more you can visit alzheimer.ab.ca or call the toll-free number at 1-866-950-5465
