Changing the future: Ron Restrick

January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month – and, as we start a new year, it’s a great time to think about what we want the future to look like for people living with dementia, for caregivers – and ultimately for everyone! With people living with dementia and their caregivers facing more social isolation than ever in an increasingly uncertain world, we’re doubling down our efforts to change the future for British Columbians affected by dementia. This year, people across the province are sharing their experiences and hopes for the future – people like Ron Restrick of Maple Ridge.

“I feel there are a lot of people getting frustrated,” Ron says, when asked about the impact of COVID-19. “They want their freedom. People have to adapt. It’s like anything else you do: you step up to the plate and move to the best of your ability.”

Ron and his son Jason first went to see his physician last fall, when they started to notice Ron was having issues with his memory and with performing certain tasks. He went through a series of tests that confirmed something was wrong, and later would be diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), a condition that leads to problems with memory, language, thinking or judgement that are greater than the cognitive changes associated with normal aging but not as severe as dementia.

“It was difficult to understand,” Ron says. “Why me? Little things are difficult – finding things, like my glasses, but I’m used to it now.” A positive person, Ron has worked to stay active and engaged, staying involved in his neighbourhood and going for hikes. “I like to say hello to neighbours while I’m running around the block. It’s a part of who I am. I enjoy people. It doesn’t matter if they’re old or young.”

After getting assessed at the Specialized Seniors Clinic in New Westminster, Ron began participating in an early-stage support group through the Alzheimer Society of B.C. “There were 14 of us. I loved it. I had a lot of fun with them. There were some really nice characters. I made a connection. There are a lot of good people out there,” he says. 

While COVID-19 means that the in-person support group is currently on hold, Ron’s family and friends have stayed connected with him. “I’m upset that it has caused problems for my family, but it hasn’t interfered with me at all. I get my food, go for walks and hikes. I still talk with my family and friends on the phone,” says Ron.

While living with MCI can be difficult, Ron’s positivity has proven to be an asset. “Sometimes I do get frustrated when I can’t find something, but it’s not troublesome. People are very cognizant of this. And it works. When I get these pieces of something that I can’t remember, my friends have patience and offer tips.”

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Learn more about the experiences of British Columbians affected by dementia and help us change the conversation – and the future! – for families on the journey.