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The Alzheimer Society is Your Path Forward

Being diagnosed with dementia can be scary and often leaves families feeling like they are all alone in dealing with it.

That’s why the World Alzheimer’s Month campaign is so important, says Erin Crawford, CEO of the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba.

“It’s so important that families know that they are not alone,” Crawford says. “There’s thousands of Manitobans experiencing the challenges dementia brings and they don’t have to figure it all out on their own. We listen to where you’re at and then help you access the right resources and guidance to move forward.”

The campaign titled, “Your Path Forward” is an opportunity to raise awareness about dementia, reduce the stigma and let families know that the Alzheimer Society is here to welcome you into a community of support.

“We support families throughout Manitoba whether you’re concerned about potential symptoms, just received a diagnosis or are facing day-to-day challenges that come further in the progression of this disease,” she says.

More than 20,300 Manitobans currently live with dementia. When you reach out to the Alzheimer Society for support, they connect you with others who have been down that road and understand at a deep level.

Gary Garbutt made that call to the Alzheimer Society and now is part of a support group for people living with dementia. “I decided to reach out to the Alzheimer Society with various questions and concerns. Eventually I joined a support group and discovered that was exactly what I really needed — that sense of community and understanding.”

Stigma continues to be a barrier when it comes to dementia. Positive change starts with learning and there is no better way to understand than by listening to people who have experienced it firsthand.

“I’m not afraid to tell people I have dementia, that took a long time, though. My wife Barb and I didn’t want anyone to know at first, but once we were open about it, everything became easier. It’s so important to be honest so that others can understand too.”

We can all help people living with dementia feel safe and included by supporting them in the community — whether at the post office, their favourite shop, using transportation or enjoying hobbies and recreation.

One of the Society’s most popular initiatives is their community-based programs where they partner with organizations such as FortWhyte Alive, Assiniboine Park Zoo, The Leaf and Dalnavert Museum to offer dementia-friendly and supportive environments for people living with dementia and their family and friends to enjoy.

“Just because you have a dementia diagnosis doesn’t mean things have to stop. You can continue to engage in your community, meet new people and learn new things,” Crawford says.

If you or someone you know are experiencing dementia, reach out today. There is something for everyone including one-to-one counselling, support groups, online education sessions, community programming and more. Learn more and connect by visiting their website at alzheimer.mb.ca