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Alzheimer’s Awareness Month – I live with dementia. Let me help you understand.

Jan 10, 2018 | 9:07 AM

To tackle stigma, the Alzheimer Society is letting the experts do the talking—people living with dementia. We are inviting Canadians to hear the inspiring stories of Naomi, Mary Beth, Roger and Mario and take a few pointers from them on how to be open and accepting towards people with dementia.

Their stories are featured on a dedicated website, www.ilivewithdementia.ca where visitors will find tips on how to be more dementia-friendly, activities to test their knowledge, and other resources to take action against stigma and be better informed about a disease that has the potential to impact every single one of us.

Stigma remains a major barrier in addressing what is the most significant health care issue for Saskatchewan’s aging population.  A recent national poll conducted for the Alzheimer Society of Canada by Leger found that almost 50% of Canadians would not want others to know if they had dementia.

With 10 more people every 24 hours developing dementia in Saskatchewan, tackling stigma and other issues about dementia is critical to addressing this extraordinary health care issue.

Along with the new awareness campaign, the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan believes that part of the answer to reducing stigma and improving the quality of life of those affected by dementia is by creating dementia friendly communities. We believe it is critical that the public understands the scale and nature of dementia and the need for individuals to seek a timely diagnosis.

With that in mind, the Alzheimer Society has launched four major dementia friendly initiatives, supported by Government of Canada funding. These initiatives include a Warning Signs campaign, a Dementia Friends program, a Dementia Friendly Communities initiative, and the Dementia Helpline.  To learn more about our Saskatchewan dementia friendly initiatives visit www.dementiafriendlysaskatchewan.ca