January is Alzheimer's Awareness Month, and the Alzheimer's Society of Saskatchewan is rallying people across the province to learn more about dementia and the support available, emphasizing that no one should face the disease alone. This year's theme, 'Forget No One', is a powerful call to action, aiming to reduce stigma and encourage people to seek help sooner. The message is clear: silence and stigma are barriers that prevent individuals from accessing the support they need. The Alzheimer's Society of Saskatchewan is a beacon of support, offering resources and a safe space for those affected by dementia.
The numbers are alarming. An estimated 20,000 people in Saskatchewan are currently living with dementia, which translates to 10 or more people developing the condition every day. A recent study by the Alzheimer's Society of Canada projects a dire future, predicting a 142% increase in the number of people living with dementia over the next 30 years. It's a stark reminder of the growing challenge we face.
Despite the increasing prevalence, many Canadians are unaware of the symptoms and signs of dementia. When polled, three out of four Canadians indicate they know someone living with dementia, but only one in four can name at least three symptoms or signs. This knowledge gap highlights the importance of raising awareness and understanding the warning signs.
Dementia is a complex condition, characterized by disruptions to healthy brain functions that can affect a person's ability to complete everyday tasks. Warning signs can include memory loss, missed appointments, difficulties with attention and problem-solving, language and communication challenges, and rapid changes in mood and behavior. Physical symptoms such as changes in vision, balance, and movement may also occur.
To address the growing need for understanding and support, the Alzheimer's Society of Saskatchewan is hosting a virtual presentation titled 'Understanding Dementia' on January 22 at 7 p.m. This free event, held over Zoom, will be led by family physician Dr. Jillian Gill from the Geriatric Management and Evaluation (GEM) Program at Saskatoon City Hospital. The presentation will cover different types of dementia, risk factors, available supports, and treatment options, providing valuable insights for those affected by the condition.
Registration for the presentation is available through the Alzheimer's Society of Saskatchewan website (https://alzheimer.ca/sk/). The society's dementia helpline, accessible at 1-877-949-4141, is available Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., offering a safe space to ask questions and share experiences. Resource centers across the province also provide local support, ensuring that help is accessible to those in need.
