The Growing Impact of Dementia
January marks Alzheimer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to shining a light on the impact of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Across Canada, approximately 750,000 people live with dementia, with countless families and caregivers affected every day. In the Waterloo Wellington region alone, there are currently 16,500 people living with diagnosed dementia, and many more are impacted through informal caregiving roles, bringing that number to approximately 41,000 who are affected by dementia.
Every day, an average of over 350 people in Canada are diagnosed with dementia, according to findings from the Landmark Study. As the size of our older population increases rapidly, it is estimated that by 2030, one million people in Canada will be living with dementia. For every person with dementia, a family member or friend spends an average of 26 hours a week providing care. These demands place significant strain on Canada’s home care and long-term care systems, which are already facing multiple crises.
The Importance of Support and Connection
Support for people living with dementia and their caregivers is more needed than ever.
Staying connected with others through community supports is crucial to avoiding isolation, while cognitive stimulation, social interaction, and physical exercise remain key to slowing the progress of dementia.
The Role of the Alzheimer Society of Waterloo Wellington
The Alzheimer Society of Waterloo Wellington (ASWW) plays a vital role in providing essential support, education, and advocacy to improve the quality of life for those impacted by this condition.
The ASWW is not only committed to raising awareness but also to fostering creativity and community engagement.
Get Creative: The Hoodie Design Contest
This year, the ASWW is hosting an exciting Hoodie Design Contest, encouraging participants to express their creativity while supporting an important cause. Open to all ages and skill levels, the contest invites entrants to design a hoodie that embodies hope, resilience, and support for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease.
The winning design will not only be showcased across ASWW’s social media platforms but will also earn the creator a $200 Michaels gift card—an exciting reward for a meaningful contribution. This initiative serves as a unique opportunity for the community to come together, share their vision, and help raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease in a creative way.
Submissions for the contest are open now, and participants can find all the details and submit their entries through the official contest form here:
Hoodie Design Contest Entry Form
The deadline for submissions is January 23, 2025, so aspiring designers are encouraged to act quickly.
Ongoing Support and Initiatives
Beyond the contest, the ASWW continues to offer vital services, including educational workshops, caregiver support groups, and one-on-one consultations. Every effort contributes to their mission of ensuring that no one faces dementia alone.
Join the Cause
This January, let’s come together to amplify awareness, foster creativity, and support those living with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers. Whether through a hoodie design, a donation, or volunteering time, every contribution makes a difference.
To learn more about the ASWW and their ongoing initiatives, visit their website or follow them on social media. Together, we can make a meaningful impact!