This January, Canadians are encouraged to support those living with dementia and learn more about the condition.
Montreal: Every week, Donald Taylor visits the Alzheimer Society of Montreal. Five years ago, his family noticed changes in his behavior, leading to a diagnosis of Lewy body dementia. With January being Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, the society is sharing ways to support the over 770,000 Canadians living with dementia.
One suggestion is to listen to the stories of those with lived experiences. “As time goes on, I will be less cognitive,” Taylor shared. “I find myself being slower doing things than before.” At 82, he still brings joy to others with his warm personality.
When he arrives at the society, he follows a routine: two activities in the morning, lunch, and then two more activities in the afternoon. The Alzheimer Society of Canada warns that by 2050, over 1.7 million Canadians could be affected by dementia.
Another way to help is by connecting with your local society. Jeane Day, Executive Director of the Alzheimer Society of Montreal, encourages donations to support research and services. “Learning about the disease is crucial,” she added, emphasizing the importance of awareness.
Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia. Family and friends provide over 580 million hours of care each year, which is like 290,000 full-time jobs. Taylor noted, “It’s not easy to be a caregiver for people like me.” His wife is his caregiver, and the society offers resources to assist them.
Day explained that getting a diagnosis early can lead to better support and care. While Alzheimer’s Awareness Month ends in January, the experiences of those living with dementia continue. “I’m losing my thoughts for a second again,” Taylor said. “We have to recognize that this is the real important thing that we have to be dealing with.”
He feels fortunate to have a supportive community behind him.
