A diagnosis of dementia affects an entire family. And more and more local families are being affected. Already, one in 11 Canadians over the age of 65 has Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia and the incidence is growing.
That’s why the non-profit Alzheimer Society of BC is offering a free education session locally for family members who are caring for a person with dementia.
Understanding Dementia, on Thursday, Sept. 17 in Nelson and Tuesday, Sept. 22 in Salmo, will provide basic information about dementia and the impact the disease has on the individual, caregivers and families.
“Caregivers will learn what to expect throughout the journey with dementia,” says Julie Leffelaar, the society’s support and education coordinator for West Kootenay.
Participants will explore how dementia affects the brain, and how it can change behaviours.
The workshop is free.
More information on Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, as well as resources for living with their impact, is available by visiting alzheimerbc.org.
The Nelson workshop on Sept. 17 is from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Community First Health Co-op, 518 Lake St.
The Salmo workshops are from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Salmo Public Library, 106 4th St. Pre-registration is required. Call Julie Leffelaar at 1-855-301-6742 or email jleffelaar@alzheimerbc.org.