Alzheimer's Awareness Month: Focus on Support and Education

January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, and the Alzheimer’s Society of Saskatchewan is encouraging people across the province to learn more about dementia and the supports available, emphasizing that no one should face the disease alone. Erica Zarazun, public awareness coordinator for the Alzheimer’s Society of Saskatchewan, said this year’s theme, “Forget No One,” is focused on reducing stigma and encouraging people to seek help sooner. “Silence and stigma are what stops people from getting the help that they need,” Zarazun said. "Support is available in communities all across Saskatchewan through the Alzheimer's Society.” Dementia numbers expected to rise sharply An estimated 20,000 people in Saskatchewan are currently living with dementia. Zarazun said that translates to 10 or more people developing dementia every day. She added that a recent landmark study by the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada projects the number of people living with dementia to increase by 142 per cent over the next 30 years. “When polled, actually three out of four Canadians indicate that they know someone living with dementia," she said. “While only one in four can actually name at least three symptoms or signs of dementia.” Recognizing the warning signs Dementia is a set of symptoms caused by disruptions to healthy brain functions, and it can affect a person’s ability to complete everyday tasks. Zarazun said warning signs can include memory loss, missed appointments, difficult with attention and problem solving, language and communication challenges, and rapid changes in mood and behaviour. Physical symptoms such as changes in vision, balance, and movement may also occur. Virtual presentation planned for Jan. 22 As part of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, the Alzheimer’s Society of Saskatchewan is hosting an “Understanding Dementia” presentation on Jan. 22 at 7 p.m. This free presentation will be held over Zoom and 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. Those who attend live will also have the opportunity to ask questions. Registration is available through the Alzheimer’s Society of Saskatchewan website. Support available across Saskatchewan Zarazun encouraged anyone with questions about dementia to contact the Alzheimer’s Society of Saskatchewan, regardless of where they are in their dementia journey. “When you call our society, you’ll be provided a safe space to ask questions and share your experiences,” she said. The society’s dementia helpline can be reached at 1-877-949-4141 and is available Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Resource centres across the province also provide local support.