Walk for Memories raises funds for programs
Struggling with the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia can be confusing and frustrating, but help for individuals and their families is as close as the phone.
Saskatchewan residents can call the Dementia Helpline at 1-800-263-3367 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday and talk to staff with the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan.
“We want people to know that we do have the 1-800 number that they can call and we have people here to help,” said Joanne Bracken, the society’s CEO. “Through that number, we can also link them into our programs and services and help them access resources in the community as well.”
To raise funds for its programs and services, as well as research, the Alzheimer Society held three Walk for Memories fundraisers in the province on Sunday.
About 250 people registered for the Regina walk, which was held at the Centre for Kinesiology, Health and Sport at the University of Regina.
Many living with the disease don’t fully understand the changes happening or know where they can find support.
The Alzheimer Society estimates between 20 and 50 per cent of people with dementia receive a diagnosis — partly because people don’t recognize the early warning signs.
“We also know that it is a disease that they fear,” Bracken said.
While a diagnosis of a dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease, can be devastating, it can also bring relief.
“As you age, sometimes things take longer for you to do, but you shouldn’t have difficulty performing them or forget how to do them,” Bracken said. “At the heart of the matter, they know that something is wrong. The diagnosis helps them to understand the source of those symptoms and that there is a reason for it. Once you find out that you have Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia, you can learn about it.”
By educating themselves, families can understand why a person with Alzheimer’s disease repeatedly asks the same question.
“We can’t change the person with dementia, but we can change our approaches and strategies to set them up for success, so we don’t put them on the spot by asking them things we know they’re going to have difficulty with,” Bracken said. “It really helps us to have a more successful relationship and to help the person keep their dignity intact and help them live well.”
Also, an early diagnosis can help families and individuals plan for the future by doing things like completing a health-care directive and setting up a power of attorney, she said.
“For some people, it gives them the opportunity to do some of the things that they have been waiting to do,” Bracken said.
The society has resource centres in Regina, Saskatoon, North Battleford, Prince Albert, Swift Current and Weyburn.
“If you’re diagnosed early enough, we have a program called First Steps for the person with dementia so they can learn about their diagnosis,” Bracken said. “They also get to meet other people who have the diagnosis and they find someone finally understands some of the struggles and challenges that they’re having.”