Every January, the Alzheimer Society of Canada takes the lead in promoting Alzheimer's Awareness Month, a campaign dedicated to increasing public understanding of dementia and its profound effects on individuals and families across the nation. While the designated month may come to an end on January 31st, the challenges faced by those living with dementia persist year-round.

The Alzheimer Society emphasizes the importance of applying the knowledge gained in January throughout the remaining months. They are advocating for the creation of dementia-friendly communities, where support and resources are accessible to individuals impacted by this condition.

Throughout this month, the Society has been sharing heartfelt stories from those living with dementia and their caregivers. These narratives aim to shed light on the daily challenges, triumphs, and aspirations of those affected. Brenda Smith, a Regional Coordinator with the Society, highlights this initiative's goal: “We want to ensure that people are aware of the resources available for those diagnosed with dementia and their caregiving partners.”

The Alzheimer Society is equipped with a plethora of tools and resources tailored to support dementia patients and their families. Brenda emphasizes that if they lack certain resources, they will actively seek them out. "It’s crucial to recognize that reaching out for help can be difficult," she says. "But if you do connect with us, you're not alone in this journey. Living with dementia can feel isolating, but there's help available. We urge everyone to reach out."

How You Can Support Alzheimer’s Awareness Month in 2025: Five Key Actions

1. **Spread the Word:** Awareness is the first step toward building a supportive community. By sharing information about dementia and its impact, you can help your fellow Canadians. Engage in conversations, distribute pamphlets, or post on social media to raise awareness.

2. **Connect with Your Local Society:** Community connections are vital. Learn about events and initiatives at your local Alzheimer Society and discover ways to get involved in supporting those affected.

3. **Educate Yourself About Dementia:** Knowledge is empowering. The Alzheimer Society provides an array of resources to help you understand the symptoms and early warning signs of dementia, allowing for timely intervention and support.

4. **Listen to Personal Stories:** Hearing from those with direct experience of dementia can create empathy and understanding. The Alzheimer Society will continue to share personal accounts from individuals living with dementia, their caregivers, and researchers. Sharing these stories can inspire others to connect and open up about their own experiences.

5. **Support Broader Initiatives:** The Alzheimer Society is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible environment for all individuals living with dementia. Your support for initiatives that promote awareness and action can help create meaningful change both individually and within society.

Get Involved: Contact Information for Support

For those seeking assistance, the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba has offices available to provide support and information. You can reach out to them at:

Brandon Office:

- **Phone:** 204-729-8320 - **Business Hours:** Monday - Thursday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

You are not alone in your journey with dementia. By reaching out and engaging with the Alzheimer Society, you can find support and resources to navigate this challenging path. Together, we can build a community that understands and supports those affected by dementia.