Dementia to triple in B.C. by 2050, says Alzheimer’s Society

There are more than 85,000 people across the province suffering from dementia, and the Alzheimer’s Society of BC says this number is set to triple by the year 2050.

Amelia Gillies, a support and education coordinator with the society, says a diagnosis can be staggering.

“There keep being changes and new symptoms and progression that folks have to come to terms with and cope with, and coping with all of those changes can also feel overwhelming … and also isolating,” Gillies said.

“Folks living with dementia themselves or their caregivers, … they often feel overwhelmed after they receive a dementia diagnosis, and that sense of overwhelm doesn’t go away.”

January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, and Gillies says she wants the conversation to revolve around tackling the isolating nature of the disease by sharing stories of people who found meaning and support, post-diagnosis.

“Folks affected by dementia living with the disease themselves are not alone,” she said.

“They are supported by thousands more caregivers who are also affected by the disease, their family, their friends, their community members.”

Gillies is urging those affected from around the province to reach out and share their experiences with others. As well, they are encouraged to visit the group’s website and read the stories of people who have dealt with similar situations.