In Gaspésie, where demographic aging is well established, requests for help addressed to the Alzheimer Society are on the rise. Needs could even double by 2050 if no cure is found.
“For several years we have been talking about 800 people receiving services. To answer the question, yes it is increasing compared to 7-8 years ago,” demonstrates the director of the Alzheimer Society Gaspésie-Îles-de-la-Madeleine, Bernard Babin.
The Alzheimer Society Gaspésie Îles-de-la-Madeleine takes action throughout the year to help people affected by memory loss. This year, its awareness campaign focuses on recognizing the first signs of the disease.
“It can delay the process on certain occasions. As they say, with respite, it is certain that we will not cure the illness, but when our facilitators go to the home every week for respite, loved ones often tell me that it does a lot of good,” adds Bernard Babin.
Meetings with families, coffee meetings, support groups, respite and memory stimulation programs as well as many other activities and training are offered by the Alzheimer Society. The non-profit organization also enhanced its training for caregivers this year.
“I see a lot of hope through all of this and we are developing more and more tools and activities that meet the need. So, there is more to come,” explains the coordinator of the Alzheimer Society Gaspésie-Îles-de-la-Madeleine, Claudie Cousin.
The company continues its mission and maintains hope in the progress of medical research. Lack of staff and funding also affects the company.
– What would be missing? (Journalist)
“Pennies. Money to help all the people who need it and, the more people are aware of the service, the more we are not able to help them,” admits Ms. Cousin.
According to Mr. Babin, nearly 2,700 people are affected by the disease and the best way to do your part as a community is to pay attention to your neighbor.
