During Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, which takes place each January, community members are encouraged to take a moment to think about all those affected by Alzheimer’s disease in some way.
Alzheimer’s Society of Manitoba CEO Erin Crawford said the theme of this year’s campaign is “Your Path.”
“While we are working to bring more attention to this issue, dealing with the different types of dementia can be difficult in the best of circumstances,” Crawford said.
Photo provided
Curtis McRae (right) and his wife Nancy, who passed away from frontotemporal dementia last September.
“Usually this means finding a community to connect with, providing reliable information, and making sure you feel supported. It’s also important to have confidence in the decisions you have to make,” Crawford said, noting that feelings of isolation can play a role when people receive a dementia diagnosis.
Crawford said the role of a caregiver for someone with Alzheimer’s disease can be challenging, especially because of the amount of responsibility that comes with the role. And that’s where society can help and provide support.
“We don’t want to burden people, and even if we explain everything, we don’t necessarily know what kind of response they’re going to get,” Crawford said.
“And it’s not about selfishness, it’s about self-preservation. It’s important to understand your situation and find like-minded people.”
“If you can process the reality you’re dealing with without a filter, you’ll be able to make better decisions. When you’re burdened with responsibility but don’t know your best option, it’s important to find community. The Alzheimer’s Association is stepping in to help,” she added.
Crawford noted that dementia has both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors, and each case is different. She said factors such as eating right, not smoking or drinking alcohol, exercising, staying connected with people and keeping the brain stimulated are all things people can do to reduce their risk.
Curtis McRae’s wife, Nancy, passed away last September at the age of 53 after battling early-onset dementia. She was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia in September 2022.
“When I walked into the room, Nancy was glowing. Now it’s not there,” said Mr McRae, 52, of St Andrews, Mant.
McRae said he is grateful for the support of the Alzheimer’s Society of Manitoba, which has helped him on his special journey.
“It’s been a great organization to bounce back from,” McRae said, noting that he attends the association’s meetings in the form of a support group.
He said it was important for carers to make the most of mental health support when available.
visit alzheimer.mb.ca For more information.
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