Because of the fear and stigma around dementia, many people are hesitant to pursue a diagnosis. However, an early diagnosis can help you understand what’s happening and prepare you for the challenges ahead.

Why get an early diagnosis? It can help you or your family member:

• Make informed choices about your (or their) care, now and in the future, as well as make decisions about legal and financial matters.
• Use treatments more effectively — medications and therapies are usually most effective in the early stages of the disease.
• Take part in clinical trials for new drugs or treatments.
• Benefit from local Alzheimer Society information, support and education programs.
• Focus on what’s important and set priorities — such as spending more time together, travelling, pursuing new goals, or deciding when to stop working.

Like so many other caregivers, Jennifer Dance has struggled with the added stress and isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Although she and her partner, Feroze, who lives with Alzheimer’s disease, participate in online Alzheimer Society programs, the cancellation of in-person programs has taken a toll. "I miss having time to myself," says Jennifer. "Feroze is always following me around. I’m his security blanket."

Jennifer has also noticed a steady decline in Feroze’s cognitive abilities this past year. "With raising children, you are constantly looking for the firsts. But now, I find myself looking for the lasts," she says.

To help her cope, Jennifer has regular online chats with other caregivers she met through her
local Alzheimer Society. "They are the only other people in the world who really understand
what we’re going through," she says.

For caregiver support in your area, visit alzheimer.ca/Find.

Erica Dove, a University of Toronto PhD student, became interested in dementia research after her grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Erica’s research is focused on using technology to improve the quality of life of people living with dementia.

With funding she received from the Alzheimer Society Research Program’s Doctoral Award, Erica plans to design and test an exer-game (a video game you play by moving), aimed at improving balance and reducing falls. People with dementia are up to 8 times more likely to fall than older adults without dementia. Falling can lead to life-altering injuries and loss of independence. Erica hopes her exer-game program provides people touched by dementia with a safe and accessible way to stay active and engaged.

For more on the research you make possible, visit alzheimer.ca/Research.

I became a monthly donor in memory of my mother, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease near the end of her life and in honour of a dear friend who is currently living with dementia. We have been friends for a long time, and she is the godmother to one of my daughters. Because of the pandemic, I haven’t been able to visit and I miss her. Her husband tells me that she hardly speaks anymore and when she does, it’s very difficult to understand her. Making a monthly donation to the Alzheimer Society is a way for me to do something to help.

- Lionel L.

If you’re not already a monthly donor, please join now. If you sign up before December 31, 2021, your monthly gift will be matched for one whole year.

To help you stay connected, informed and supported, your local Alzheimer Society offers a range of virtual learning tools and webinars — live and on-demand. Topics include tutorials on how to join a virtual meeting, help navigating the healthcare system, safety tips for seniors, preparing for a move to a long-term care home, and more.

For online resources in your area, visit your regional Alzheimer Society website.

Large groups, unfamiliar places, noise and excitement can create a lot of anxiety for people living with dementia. This can make the holiday season stressful for them and their families. Here are some tips to help make the holidays more enjoyable for everyone:

• Set realistic expectations.
• Plan smaller get-togethers.
• Keep celebrations short, or, at longer gatherings, bring the person with dementia only for the most meaningful part of the event.
• Choose familiar places for events to help avoid confusion.
• Find a quiet area where the person can retreat and have someone keep them company.
• Do things that have special meaning such as looking at old family photographs or singing songs.

RBC Wealth Management Royal Trust is a proud partner of the Alzheimer Society of Canada Legacy Giving initiatives.