A group of Pitt Meadows residents meets monthly to talk about how members’ lives are affected by dementia.
They are all caring for family members who are in various stages of the disease. They also all attend a free caregiver support group offered locally by the non-profit Alzheimer Society of B.C.
“This is their lifeline,” said Dorothy Leclair, the society’s support and education coordinator for Pitt Meadows and the North Fraser. “They can meet with people with similar issues who are in a unique position to offer support to others on the same journey. The group is a place that they can talk openly, share information and give each other mutual support.”
An estimated one in 11 B.C. residents over age 65 already lives with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia. That number is projected to double over the next generation. The resulting need for assistance is soaring, and volunteers help ensure that the demand is met.
“Volunteers are absolutely invaluable to our team,” said Leclair. “It’s exceptionally rewarding work, to know that you are making a meaningful difference in someone’s life.”
Training is provided to facilitators, and a one-year commitment is required.
• For more information and to volunteer, contact Leclair at 604-398-0780 or dleclair@alzheimerbc.org. For more information on Alzheimer’s, visit www.alzheimerbc.org.
