It is a common misconception that dementia is a result of Alzheimer’s disease.
In fact, it is Alzheimer’s that remains the most common form of dementia, even up to 63%. Vascular dementia accounts for 20% of cases and other related disorders complete the dementia diagnoses.
“It would be better to talk about dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases,” clarifies Tonya Thibodeau, Director General of the Alzheimer Society Suroît. “This year is the 20th anniversary for the organization in the region and we would like to raise awareness within the population that Alzheimer’s disease appears in the name because it is the most commonly known form of dementia,” specified the spokesperson for the society which was founded by Robert Sauvé of Valleyfield on November 15, 1995.
All forms of dementia have symptoms in common but to different degrees: light, moderate or advanced. Alzheimer’s disease can follow a relatively stable rate of development or evolve rapidly. “Assistance is provided following a diagnosis by a physician. Home care services are mainly intended for the serious cases,” indicated Sylvie Leduc, chef des programmes et services for the Alzheimer Society Suroît.
Age remains the most significant risk factor to contracting a dementia related disease because only 5% to 7% of cases affect people in the 40 to 50 age group. For more than 60% of people affected, it is because of their lifestyle and not because of genetic factors.
Before exhaustion sets in
Often, natural caregivers turn to the Alzheimer Society when they are already in a state of exhaustion. Thanks to the program “First Link®”, caregivers can avoid such a situation by contacting the organization as soon as a diagnosis is made and have access to an environment that offers learning sessions, services, coaching and support.
“Very often, denial and fear take over. People are afraid of the symptoms. Getting help sooner than later makes it easier to accept the disease,” explains Tonya Thibodeau. “With our programs which are based on information, learning and access to services and support, we are hoping to improve the daily lives of these people who often find themselves wondering where to turn and are unaware of the tools available for preventing stress and exhaustion,” mentioned the Director General.
Some statistics for the Alzheimer Society Suroît
$717,032 Operating budget for 2014-2015
$165,940 Grant from the Agence de la Santé et des Services sociaux de la Montérégie (ASSSM)
$292,754 Respite-stimulation projects
$175,653 ROMAN – (The Montérégie Coalition of Organisations for Caregivers)
$44,517 Financial activities
206 Consultations in person
2,424 Consultations by telephone
30 Employees
204 Individuals affected
586 Natural caregivers
30 – Employees
600 Natural caregivers
