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Alzheimer may change your loved one, but it needn’t change you

"What will you pledge to do to stay connected with someone with dementia?" is the question Alzheimer Society of B.C. is asking Richmond residents.
Alzheimer Society of B.C.
Alzheimer Society of B.C. is hosting a campaign to keep residents connected during COVID-19. Photo: Alzheimer Society of B.C.

"What will you pledge to do to stay connected with someone with dementia?" is the question Alzheimer Society of B.C. is asking Richmond residents.

According to the society, an estimated 60 per cent of people with a diagnosis of dementia live in the community – not in long-term care.

Their new campaign aims to inspire people to “reflect” on ways they can be there for those close to them living with dementia.

The public is asked to contribute to the campaign by making a pledge at DontChange.ca explaining how they plan to stay connected with people affected by dementia.

Pledges are typed up onto virtual sticky notes, which are then shared with other website visitors.

Website visitors can also learn how small actions impact the lives of those living with dementia and how to support them and the society.

“We know that people living with dementia in Richmond, and their caregivers, are facing more social isolation than ever,” said Barbara Lindsay, interim CEO at Alzheimer Society of B.C.

“The best thing we can all do to support anyone living with dementia is not change, even if they do.”

Lindsay added that the public should keep visiting, calling or even Facetime those living with dementia and remind them they are “not alone.”

Meanwhile, the Alzheimer Society of B.C. is hosting a new webinar series titled “Lived experience” on Nov. 25.

The webinar on Wednesday will focus on the experiences of two individuals living with dementia and how they are being impacted by COVID-19 during their holiday preparation.

Carly Gronlund, provincial coordinator of Alzheimer Society of B.C., said holidays can be difficult for people living with dementia for “a multitude of reasons” including sensory overload from flickering candles, large groups of people and multiple activities happening at the same time.

“It’s important to understand what a person may find challenging, so that we can adapt accordingly,” said Gronlund.

“Even small changes can make a big difference and ensure everyone has the best holiday experience possible.”

The webinar will be held on Nov. 25 at 2 p.m.

To register for the webinar, visit Bit.ly/3pXgZ7t