Residents in Creston will have an opportunity to learn how they can make their communities more dementia friendly at an Alzheimer Society of BC event at 6 p.m. June 24 at the Creston Valley Seniors Association hall, co-presented by Nelson-Creston MLA Michelle Mungall.
Sixty per cent of people with dementia live in the community by themselves or with a caregiver. Although many people with dementia live well in the community for quite a long time, staying engaged in the activities a person once enjoyed can become more difficult as their cognitive abilities change. Meanwhile, stigma, as well as social and physical barriers, can make it harder for people with dementia to feel supported and remain involved in their communities.
People with dementia often face challenges when going shopping, doing their banking, eating out at a restaurant or going to their local post office. They may also have difficulties using transportation, going on holidays, maintaining social contact or enjoying hobbies out in the community.
However, with information, compassion and community engagement, there is an opportunity to change this. Dementia Friends education, which is open to the public, will help everyone to take part in creating accessible, inclusive spaces for people with dementia.
To register, call 1-877-388-4498.
—ALZHEIMER SOCIETY OF BC