There are currently over 50,000 caregivers in communities across British Columbia providing an estimated 67.9 million hours of unpaid support. While supporting someone living with dementia can bring joy, connection and fulfillment, caregivers also face an increased likelihood of depression, emotional stress and financial problems.
The ability to access education, information and to be a part of a supportive community of people who understand the dementia journey is critical for caregivers’ well-being. For Pierrette Edgar, connecting with the Alzheimer Society of B.C. gave her strength to move forward after her husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
“The doctor must have seen the look on my face when we found out,” Edgar says. “He referred us to the Alzheimer Society of B.C. and that’s what saved me.”
Northern B.C. is honouring all caregivers at the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s biggest fundraiser, the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s, presented by Go Auto, in Prince George on Sunday, May 25. By sharing their stories, honourees put a face and voice to dementia, breaking down stigma and inspiring change. You can walk in honour of your community’s honouree or in support of someone in your life who has been affected by dementia.
Funds raised help the organization deliver vital programs and services and enable critical research to change the future of the disease.
“Many caregivers have shared with me that our programs and services helped connect them to a community of care where they felt supported, included and validated,” says Danielle Bywater, a Support and Education Coordinator for the Alzheimer Society of B.C. “Creating relationships and supporting caregivers from diagnosis through to the end-of-life stage of dementia gives care partners a safe space to discuss complex feelings and they know we are just a phone call away should they need guidance, support or simply an understanding ear.”
The Society provides ongoing support, proactive outreach calls and the First Link® Dementia Helpline, where callers will find knowledgeable staff who listen to their needs (in English, Cantonese, Mandarin, Punjabi and Urdu) and guide them to the resources, education and programs that are best suited for their unique situation. The support is invaluable for caregivers who are facing an unpredictable and, at times, isolating journey.
“Caregivers deserve to have access to meaningful dementia support that meets their needs, which is why Go Auto is so thrilled to be continuing to be provincial presenting sponsor for the Walk,” says Michael Hladun, Senior Vice President for Go Auto. “It’s incredibly important for people across the province to understand the impact that dementia has on their communities – but also, how they can help.”
To help make a difference in the lives of caregivers on the dementia journey in your community, visit WalkForAlzheimers.ca.
If you are affected by dementia, the Alzheimer Society of B.C. can help. Call the First Link® Dementia Helpline at 1-800-936-6033 or visit alzheimerbc.org.