Alzheimer’s Awareness Month
January is National Alzheimer’s Awareness month in Canada. In this post we will discuss what Alzheimer’s disease is, ways to meaningfully engage in awareness, and the Memory Care options provided by a partnership through Green Acres Foundation and Alberta Health Services.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, and affects all aspects of how a person lives by destroying brain cells and causing thinking and memory to deteriorate over time. This not a normal part of aging and can cause suffering and uncertainty for those living with the disease as well as caregivers and loved ones.
According to Alzheimer Society Canada, around 597,000 people in Canada were living with dementia in 2020 and the WHO estimates that over 55 million people live with dementia worldwide.
Even though 1 in 5 Canadians have experienced caring for someone living with a form of dementia, a lack of understanding in our society has resulted in stigmatization and other barriers for those living with the disease as well as caregivers.
In a survey by the Alzheimer’s Society Canada, “56% of Canadians are concerned about being affected by Alzheimer’s disease… the greatest concern is being a burden to others, losing independence, and inability to recognize family and friends.”
5 Ways you can engage in Alzheimer’s Awareness
Share Your Story
Many caregivers wish that more people understood the realities of caring for someone with dementia and 2/3 caregivers find the experience of caring for someone with dementia to be isolating. If you are affected by dementia, please consider sharing your story on social media using the hashtags #Alzheimers #Caregiver #AlzheimersAwarenessMonth #IlivewithDementia #LivingwithDementia to help others feel understood and to share information.
Support Caregivers
Supporting caregivers goes hand in hand with supporting those living with the disease. Alzheimer’s disease greatly affects loved ones, especially those trying their best to provide care. Show that you support the caregivers in your life by any act of kindness such as sending them a warm message, or bring a meal.
Meaningful Visits with Loved Ones
Some people find it difficult to visit loved ones living with dementia. It may feel uncertain how the visit will go or it could feel painful to be around someone who’s mental state is changing. There are many ways to feel more at ease while visiting, including looking through family photos and reliving good memories. Check out these tips on the Alzheimer’s Society site on visiting a person with dementia.
Support Alzheimer’s Research and Learn More About the Disease
Alzheimer’s research is largely underfunded, if you are able to, consider supporting an organization like Alzheimer Society Canada. Lethbridge hosts a Walk for Alzheimer’s event in May. Click here to see if a community near you hosts a Walk for Alzheimer’s.
Learn More About the Disease
Educating yourself is the first step in protecting yourself and others against disease. As time goes on, we are learning more about ways to prevent dementia, including: challenging your brain, getting enough sleep, socializing, protecting your head, being active, eating well, and reducing stress. Check out more ways of preventing dementia here. Click here to learn more about signs and symptoms. Learning more about disease and listening to stories from people affected by dementia helps reduce stigma and stereotypes.
Green Acres Foundation Provides Memory Care
It is important to plan ahead to reduce stress on caregivers and loved ones living with disease. We want you to to know that you’re not alone. A partnership between Green Acres Foundation and AHS, our retirement communities with Memory Care offer safe, secure units and inviting, home-like communal spaces. We provide comprehensive care and compassion for seniors living with moderate to severe dementia who may have a high risk of wandering. Learn more about our Memory Care here. Also check our step-by-step guide to find the best housing and support options or send us a message to learn more.