Impact of the Landmark Study: Jim's story
Jim Mann, a member of the Alzheimer Society of B.C.'s Leadership Group of People Living with Dementia, recounts his summer and shares his thoughts on the Landmark Study.
I’m baaack!
It seems so long ago since my last post. Honestly, after the summer hiatus, I simply forgot to write for a month or two! Such is life when you have dementia, isn’t it?
It has been an active six months since my last story, and a couple of items from that time are worth highlighting. One of the highlights was speaking with students in a split grade 3/4 class at their school. I was excited to talk to them about dementia and my living with Alzheimer's disease and boy, were they ready with their questions! How old was I when I was diagnosed, how old am I now, have I got lost (yes), do I still drive (no), did I forget where I was going when I drove (yes)? I showed the students my grade 3 class picture and when I mentioned the year it was taken, it generated a lot of “WOW!”
In September, the Alzheimer Society of Canada released the first of two Landmark Study reports, this one entitled “Navigating the Path forward for Dementia in Canada.” The report highlighted the number of Canadians in 2020 who were “new cases of dementia diagnosed” as 124,000 (348 per day). The report suggests that by 2030, eight years from now, “the annual incidence will rise to 187,000 new cases a year” or 512 Canadians per day.
The number of British Columbians living with dementia in 2022 is over 85,000. By 2030, the projected number of people diagnosed will be 23,200, which will mean 133,700 will be living with dementia in British Columbia.
In an earlier story, I wrote about my hesitation to attend an out-of-town conference, I want you to know I went and it all went well. The airport experience was positive and I enjoyed the conference. Yes, the conference was busy with people everywhere, but I stayed focused and retreated to my room when I needed to. It was definitely a good news story!
This time of year can be challenging for many of us living with dementia with bright flashing lights, new sounds, and for many, large gatherings with family and friends. Finding a quiet space will be important for those moments when you need a break or a few minutes of silence away from the hustle and bustle. Be sure to look after yourself. As this is being published in December, I wish everyone a happy holidays and all the very best for the New Year.
My plan for 2023 is to return to more regular postings of Jim’s Story, so I will see you next month!