Alzheimer's disease is on the rise in Canada. Currently, 500,000 Canadians have Alzheimer's or a related dementia, and approximately 231 million hours a year are dedicated to providing informal care to family members and close friends.
In recognition of National Alzheimer's Month in January, Home Instead Senior Care in Port Coquitlam is offering free workshops and other resources to support family caregivers throughout the Tri-Cities area.
While recognition of the disease is slowly growing, and numerous support groups and agencies, such as the Alzheimer's Society of BC, are available to help, there are still many families who are struggling alone, and uncertain of how to support their loved one with the disease, said Sharon Scramstad, general manager of Home Instead Seniors Care in PoCo.
"We just figure that the more education that is out there, the better," Scramstad said.
To that end, Home Instead is hosting a four-part information series over two evening workshops, which take place from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Feb. 22 and March 1.
The workshops are free and people will learn about the disease and how it progresses, and will be able to acquire some new resources and tips, including ways to keep people with dementia or Alzheimer's participating in community and family life.
"We'll be talking about how to keep them (Alzheimer's clients) engaged, which is going to benefit long term."
One of the newest resources is a free smartphone app available on iTunes called The Alzheimer's and Other Dementias Daily Helper. Scramstad demonstrated the app that organizes information and shows people where to get more help. It also offers tips on specific situations, such as bathing, from people experienced in these issues.
"These tips are basically 'this is what has worked for me,'" Scramstad said. "If they feel like they have support, the caregivers don't feel so isolated," she said.
As well, Home Instead has published a guidebook, with information and tips to help family caregivers handle difficult situations, which will be available at the workshop. It also has Caring Cards, conversational starters to help people suffering from Alzheimer's to recall their memories, and a Life Journal, where memories, photos and care information are stored.
The cards, books and journal can be purchased at the workshop, which is taking place at the Home Instead Resource Centre (200-2550 Shaughnessy St). Families are also invited to visit www.helpforalzheimersfamilies.ca for online resources. To find out more about Home Instead, visit www.homeinstead.ca.
