“You have dementia.”
It’s a phrase that is a reality for an ever-increasing number of Courtenay-area residents.
To help them understand this pressing health issue, the non-profit Alzheimer Society of B.C. brings its free workshop, Getting to Know Dementia, to the city on Thursday, March 30.
Participants will receive basic information on dementia and the impact it has on individuals, their caregivers and their support networks.
The introductory session reviews the challenges of receiving a diagnosis of dementia. Participants will learn about the different types of support available throughout the dementia journey, how to begin planning for the future, and strategies for living well.
This session is intended for people experiencing early symptoms of dementia, as well as family members or friends who are supporting a person with a recent dementia diagnosis. The workshop is not intended for the general public or health-care providers.
The free workshop runs from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Lower Native Sons Hall, 360 Cliffe Ave. Pre-registration is required by contacting Courtenay Recreation at 250-338-1000 or info.nanaimo@alzheimerbc.org.
For more information on Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, visit alzheimerbc.org.
By the numbers:
16,000 – The number of Canadians under the age of 65 living with dementia.
25,000 – The number of new cases of dementia diagnosed every year.
564,000 - Canadians are currently living with dementia.
937,000 - The number of Canadians who will be living with the disease in 15 years.
1.1 million - The number of Canadians affected directly or indirectly by the disease.