Alzheimer Society of B.C. urges summer emergency preparedness for people affected by dementia
Take proactive steps to support people living with dementia.
Wildfire season is already underway and with the province bracing for more climate-related emergencies, the Alzheimer Society of B.C. is urging the public to take proactive steps to support people living with dementia.
Emergencies can pose serious risks to people living with dementia. While each person’s experience with the disease is unique, many may experience increased disorientation, agitation or difficulty communicating during periods of sudden change or disruption.
“We encourage all British Columbians to check in regularly with neighbours, friends and family – especially if you know someone living with dementia. They are often more vulnerable during events like wildfires, evacuations or extreme heat,” says Jill Jukes, Director, Community Services at the Alzheimer Society of B.C. “Taking time now to get prepared can help ease the impact of these disruptions and ensure caregivers are ready to respond quickly and calmly.”
Caregivers are often left to navigate challenges and face emergencies alone, feeling overwhelmed as access to support can be limited. Managing increased stress, anxiety and logistical responsibilities can take an even larger toll when caring for someone living with dementia.
To reduce stress and ensure safety during an emergency, families and caregivers are encouraged to understand the potential risks in their region and create an evacuation plan to ensure they can respond quickly in the case of an emergency. Packing an emergency kit is also crucial for alleviating the stress of someone living with dementia caused by the sudden changes in locations and environment. Click here for resources for preparing for emergencies.
“In challenging situations, community matters,” says Jukes. “Sharing emergency updates and offering help with transportation or supplies are just a few ways to lend a helping hand. We can all play a part by being informed, prepared and compassionate.”
Our First Link® Dementia Helpline offers support through a dementia lens – helping callers understand what someone living with dementia might be experiencing and offer practical, dementia-friendly strategies for responding with compassion and care.
The First Link® Dementia Helpline is free and all calls are confidential (toll-free):
- English: 1-800-936-6033 (Mon–Fri, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.)
- Cantonese and Mandarin: 1-833-674-5007 (Mon–Fri, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
- Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu: 1-833-674-5003 (Mon–Fri, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)