Hello everyone, and welcome back to our regular scheduling! I’ve always been fond of the back-to-school season. Even though September makes me nostalgic for my school days (which I loved!), I greatly appreciate the cooler weather and the return to routine. The month of September is also important to me because it is World Alzheimer’s Month. Whether you or someone you love has received a diagnosis, we are all affected by this disease in one way or another.
According to the Alzheimer Society of Canada, about 56% of Canadians are worried about being diagnosed with this disease for which there is no cure. This high statistic reflects just how devastating the consequences of dementia can be for a person and those around them.
Preserving your cognitive legacy
Take heart! There are steps you can take to reduce the risk of dementia and help preserve your precious memories. For instance, we can lower the risk factors associated with lifestyle by quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake and avoiding brain injury.
Another way to prevent dementia is by keeping your brain and body active. While the activities of daily living can keep our brains somewhat busy, targeting specific areas of your brain can be a great boost. Be sure to look into this fall’s schedule for our Brain Power Drop-in (formerly Stay Sharp) if you are looking for opportunities to train your brain.
I am also happy to let you know that your Wellness Centre will be offering subsidized fitness classes for English-speaking 50+ adults. This course is tailored to be fun, dynamic and, very importantly, suitable for anyone with limited mobility or back pain. Register here.
Capturing new memories despite the challenges
If you’re caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease, you may be mourning the loss of the person you once knew, even if they are still physically present. While caring for someone has its share of responsibilities, being the guardian of your loved one’s memory is a precious role to take on. By talking about your loved one’s past, beliefs and experiences, you enable others to see them as a whole instead of as a patient. To me, this is synonymous with dignity. Moreover, continuing to capture new memories with your loved one, despite the risk of them being forgotten, is one of the most touching proofs of love there is.
Fortunately, you are not alone in this journey as resources are available. If you’re interested in hearing about tips and tricks to support your loved one, join us at this month’s Wellness Café: Supporting a loved one with Alzheimer, offered in French (Conseils et stratégies pour accompagner mon proche) by the Société Alzheimer de Québec. In addition, whether you are actively caring for someone with with dementia or used to do so, I invite you to share your experience with other caregivers on our next Caregivers’ Circle, which will focus on the mixed feelings that can arise as a caregiver. Please contact me for more information about the Wellness Café or the Caregivers’ Circle.
Before I sign off, just a reminder that if you are an English-speaking older adult or a caregiver in the Capitale-Nationale region, please know that I am here to provide you with personalized advice and support. Feel free to reach out to me by email at afortinmaltais@jhpartners.net or call me at 581-446-7476.
Looking forward to seeing you this fall!
Anaïs
