As the numbers increase for older adults facing a diagnosis of dementia, negative stereotypes and stigma surrounding the disease remain strong.
In Alberta, dementia support groups are working towards changing that.
The Alzheimer’s Society estimates that 771,939 people in Canada are living with dementia, an umbrella term for a group of symptoms related to cognitive abilities, memory, thinking and behaviour.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia.
“Even though more than half a million Canadians live with dementia,” the Alzheimer’s Society notes, “many feel excluded, ignored and treated differently for something beyond their control.”
Across Canada, dementia support groups are becoming more available and visible.
The groups represent a form of support for those diagnosed with symptoms of dementia and also help combat the general stigma surrounding mental decline associated with it.
Alberta cities step up to provide accessible information for all
In Okotoks, a city south of Calgary, two dementia-support groups offer support for people who want to connect with others facing similar circumstances.
Espresso Yourself, at the Okotoks Public Library, is a weekly event hosted on Monday mornings by a mental health outreach nurse.
The event is free and attendees get to learn about various mental health topics such as dementia guidance, feelings of being overwhelmed and understanding emotions surrounding the diagnosis.
Another support group, also offered by the Okotoks Public Library, is specific to those dealing with dementia and their caregivers.
Journeys: Dementia and Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group is led every other Thursday by an Alberta Health registered nurse.
This group is intended to be encouraging for anybody whose life has been affected by dementia and acts as a place where members can share challenges and coping strategies with each other.
These support groups are a small but powerful effort in helping create an environment free of stigma for those living with dementia.
Research has shown that support groups play an essential role in creating space for people to acknowledge the reality of a dementia diagnosis.
“They are also gateways to understanding and sharing, enabling people to cope better and for longer,” cites a British Medical Journal research paper that refers to the impact that dementia support groups have on the public.
Aside from in-person support groups, there are also many similar offerings online. Help For Dementia, created to provide support and help alleviate the social consequences of the condition, hosts online support groups around once a month.
Help For Dementia organizers offer an array of support group options, including some for specific communities, such as older adults of the 2SLGBTQI+ community who live with dementia.
Alzheimer Calgary also provides free support groups both online and in person.
Its support groups are typically directed toward caregivers and loved ones, aiming to help them care for those with dementia.