Spring is a time for connecting . . . which keeps the brain healthy
By Contributor
Spring is about renewal and rejuvenation – especially for Nelson residents dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
“One thing that helps us renew our energy and improve our well-being is connecting with others,” says Linda Hoskin, the Nelson Support and Education Coordinator for the non-profit Alzheimer Society of B.C.
Research shows that being socially active helps to reduce stress, boost mood and keep relationships strong – all important factors in preventing dementia, a degenerative brain disease.
One in four Canadians has someone in their family with Alzheimer’s disease. And every five minutes a Canadian develops dementia.
Those statistics illustrate the need for residents to take immediate steps for their own brain health, she says.
“Connecting with others can be about maintaining old friendships, but it can also be about new experiences and creating new bonds.”
Some other suggestions for connecting with people:
*Tell them about your diagnosis,” Hoskin said.
“The disease becomes a very personal experience not just for the person living with dementia but for their families and friends as well, the people who were an important part of those memories.”
Although receiving a diagnosis of Alzheimer‘s disease or another dementia is very difficult, some people are relieved to have an explanation for the problems they are experiencing.
“Telling family members and friends about your diagnosis also gives them the opportunity to learn about dementia and how they can best support you,” Hoskin explains.
*Meet others with the disease. . .. You are not alone in your journey.”
There are approximately 70,000 other people with dementia living in B.C.
Some of them participate in a free local support and information group that meets monthly.
It serves as a place to exchange information, and create support and friendship with others whose lives are affected by dementia.
The group also serves as a forum for sharing practical tips and strategies for coping with the disease.
It meets at 7 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month.
For more information contact Hoskin at 250-352-6788 (toll-free 1-877-452-6788) or lhoskin@alzheimerbc.org.
For more information on Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, visit the Alzheimer Society of B.C. website at www.alzheimerbc.org
