January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, with this year’s focus on reminding people living with dementia and those who support them that they are not alone.

Danielle Bywater, a support and education co-ordinator with the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s First Link program for the West Kootenay region, said stigma and isolation remain major challenges for those affected by dementia.

“We want to ensure that people affected by dementia know that they are not alone, that’s both people who are living with the disease as well as their care partners,” said Bywater.

“We want to show that there’s others that have felt meaning, connection, and even joy after a dementia diagnosis.”

Despite growing awareness, Bywater said many people delay seeking help when symptoms begin because of fear or misunderstanding, sometimes even before receiving a formal diagnosis.

“People find that they are increasingly isolated when they get the diagnosis or even before they have that diagnosis and are noticing some changes but are not really wanting to get them checked out,” she said.

“It can lead to that reluctance. And we know that once they get that diagnosis, there’s new treatment options, there’s support options that can make that journey a little bit easier.”

As part of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, the Alzheimer Society of B.C. is hosting a public information session in Nelson on Saturday, in partnership with the Nelson Seniors Coordinating Society.

The session will focus on dementia education and explore simple strategies that can create a more supportive, inclusive and welcoming community for people affected by the disease.

“Many people reach out to us because they want to help, but they’re not sure how,” Bywater said.

“We’ll start with some basic information about dementia, including signs and symptoms people might notice in family members or in day-to-day interactions.”

The session will also address stigma and barriers faced by people living with dementia, including challenges in public spaces.

“There’s environmental barriers for people living with dementia. For example, signage. Is it legible and easy to understand?” Bywater said.

“A dementia-friendly community goes through the community and works towards making it inclusive so that people living with dementia can thrive in their communities for as long as possible.”

The session is open to the public, but caregivers and people in the early stages of dementia are strongly encouraged to attend.

“It’s really for everyone, but I especially would encourage those people who are caring for someone or maybe suspect that someone they care for is showing signs.”

“Nelson has a really strong sense of community. This session is for anyone who wants to learn more our society and the resources we offer.”

Bywater said dementia does not affect only older adults, despite common misconceptions.

While age is the strongest risk factor, people can be diagnosed under 65, a condition known as young-onset dementia.

“People are diagnosed as early as in their 30s. It’s not just a disease that affects older people.”

According to Interior Health data, 253 people in Nelson had an official dementia diagnosis as of last year. 

“And we know that there’s many more,” Bywater said.“Dementia doesn’t just affect the person, it affects their entire family.”

Bywater hopes those attending Saturday’s session leave with both knowledge and reassurance.

“I hope people leave knowing they are not alone, and for those who aren’t personally affected, I hope they learn that it’s possible to live a fulfilling life with dementia and to create meaningful, supportive connections in the community.” 

The session will run from 2:15 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, at the Nelson Seniors Centre, 717 Vernon St.

More information about Alzheimer’s Awareness Month events and online webinars is available through the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s website. 

The organization also operates a helpline for anyone seeking information or support. 

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