‘We’re trying to flip the stigma on this’: Alzheimer’s awareness month.

The majority of people with Alzheimer’s are being cared for by family members.

Women,make up Sixty-three percent of those diagnosed, as well more than two out of every three caregivers for those with dementia.

Research the Alzheimer Society of Alberta and North West Territories has done anticipates an almost 300% increase in the number of people living with dementia in Alberta within the next 25 years.

Alberta has also seen the largest increase of dementia cases in Canada.

George Andrews, CEO of the Alzheimer’s Society of Alberta and North West Territories, attributes that to improvements in diagnosis and said that if you see someone that appears forgetful in public to show compassion.

“Don’t laugh at them, help them or don’t correct them just help guide them through their process because these things come and go,” Andrews said.

“As a person has an embarrassing circumstance, they may be disinclined to go grocery shopping again. So then this all feeds in on,” he added.

“We’re trying to flip the stigma on this.”

Andrews adds that short term memory issues is normally the first sign of dementia, followed by changes in personality, and being quick to anger. He advises those who are suffering from dementia to avoid isolation as it can amplify issues experienced with the disease.

“One thing I’d like that for people to know and appreciate that the universities and post secondary systems in Alberta are doing a lot of great research,” Andrews said.

“We fund several million dollars a year into research, and that’s funded exclusively by donor support. We want to try and keep these researchers in Alberta,” he added.

“They are doing great work. It’s it’s on par with the best in the world.”

“It allows people living in this province to participate in clinical trials that may not be available otherwise.”

The Medicine Hat Alzheimer Society hosts a drop-in care partner support group each month at the Veiner Centre on the second tuesday of the month from 1-3 pm.

There are also sessions for persons living with dementia and care partners to attend together once per month on the third tuesday of the month from 1-3 p.m. To register for this event call 1-866-950-5465 or email reception@alzheimer.ab.ca.

Virtual sessions are also available for support groups.

by Jesse Gill

‘We’re trying to flip the stigma on this’: Alzheimer’s awareness month.

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