Public Awareness

Dementia is about more than just memory loss.

Alzheimer’s disease is just one type of dementia. Different types of dementia can affect the brain differently, meaning that symptoms can present and progress differently depending on the type of dementia an individual has and their own unique characteristics.

Dementia can cause changes in an individual’s abilities, behaviour, and communication – the ABCs of Dementia.

That’s why raising awareness about all of the 10 evidence-based possible signs associated with dementia is critical to promoting recognition of changes and empowering individuals to access an early diagnosis. It is also part of the foundational work required to increase understanding of what an individual with dementia can experience so that others can better recognize how to respond in supportive ways in their own interactions and in their communities.

Individuals with dementia and care partners in Saskatchewan repeatedly identify stigma and lack of understanding as the main challenges they experience in their communities. To change this for the better, we need to raise awareness of the ABCs of Dementia in the general public.

Do you know your ABCs of Dementia?

By learning the ABCs of Dementia, individuals like you can help us to raise public awareness and make a difference in reducing the stigma that is too often caused by myths and misconceptions about dementia.

By using evidence-based information, the ABCs of Dementia campaign emphasizes all of the changes that dementia can cause and provides a trustworthy source of information. The ABCs of Dementia framework has been reviewed by leading health professionals and physicians.

Visit www.ABCDementia.ca to learn your ABCs of Dementia today.

You can also contact your local Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan Resource Centre for more information about the 10 possible signs associated with dementia, and learn about upcoming events in communities around the province – including free, public presentations of the ABCs of Dementia – on our Events page, too.

Early diagnosis

Early diagnosis is an important key in identifying and addressing treatable causes of symptoms, providing an understanding of the symptoms being experienced, allowing individuals and those that support them to prepare and plan ahead and to learn more about ways to continue to live well.

If individuals recognize the possible signs in themselves or others or are concerned about their own risk, they are encouraged to speak to their healthcare professional.

Access your copy of the Getting a Diagnosis Toolkit today.

To assist them in starting that conversation, individuals can call the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan to connect to further information about the warning signs and access resources like our Getting a Diagnosis Toolkit. The Getting a Diagnosis Toolkit can help individuals plan ahead to get the most out of their medical appointments and discuss their concerns with their family doctor or health care provider.

People affected by dementia who connect with the services of the Alzheimer Society have a far better experience with the disease than those who don't.