Free workshop to be presented by Alzheimer Society

“You have dementia.” It’s a phrase being heard by an ever-increasing number of Penticton residents during a medical appointment.

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 Wednesday.

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 currently supporting a person with a recent dementia diagnosis. The workshop is not intended for the general public or health-care providers.

The workshop runs from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Penticton Alzheimer Resource Centre, 104 - 35 Backstreet Boulevard. Pre-registration is required by contacting the centre at 250-493-8182 (1-888-318-1122) or mrutherford@alzheimerbc.org.

If you are living with dementia or have questions about the disease, visit www.alzheimerbc.org and call the First Link Dementia Helpline at 1-800-936-6033.