As September draws to a close..

World Alzheimer’s Month unites individuals and organizations who dedicate their time toward education, enlightening, and supporting existing efforts.

Given the continuous stigma and misinformation around Alzheimer’s and other dementias and the ever-growing numbers, it is crucial to recognize the risk factors and continuously treat those who have already been diagnosed.

This year’s theme “Never too early, never too late” encourages early intervention, healthy lifestyle choices, and regular monitoring of brain health as a preventative measure at all stages of life. While highlighting that risk reduction should continue even after diagnosis, managing lifestyle and health factors can potentially slow down the progression of dementia and improve wellbeing.

There is growing awareness that Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias can start many years prior to symptoms, likewise awareness of the lifelong brain health interventions and choices that can be made. With the global number of people living with dementia expected to triple by 2050, there has never been a more urgent need to understand and respond to the risk factors associated with this condition.

This is why NOVA West Island is committed to continuing to work with community partners to share resources and referrals to help best those living with dementia as well as their caregivers and families. Moreover, through our Senior Activity Program divisions, we are ‘Bringing Joy to life for those living with Alzheimer’s or related Dementia’ through engaging activities based on interests, needs, and a sense of choice revolving around a positive approach to care.