Also, it was found that people living with dementia didn’t want to be a burden along with the fear of losing their own independence.
These numbers all bring people like Laurie De Croos, First Link Support and Education Coordinator with the Alzheimer Society of B.C., into an on-going fight to break down barriers and reduce the stigma associated to Alzheimer’s and forms of dementia.
“When we have a disease of dementia, it doesn’t mean you can’t have a meaningful life. It means your life may be different but it can still be meaningful. Also, your story doesn’t end with a diagnosis of dementia because you’re forgetting or you’re not the same person, it just means your journey continues with dementia being a part of that story.”
The Alzheimer Society of B.C. connected people living with dementia, their caregivers and family members to support and education at any point in the disease through First Link dementia support.
In Prince George, residents can connect to support by asking their health-care provider for a referral, by visiting their local resource centre or by calling the First Link Dementia Helpline at 1-800-936-6033. The Alzheimer Society of B.C. in Prince George can be reached at 250-564-7533.
On January 14th, Alzheimer’ Society of B.C. will be holding a flag-raising ceremony at City Hall at 1 p.m. to further celebrate Alzheimer’s Awareness Month.
