YORKTON – A presentation from the Alzheimer's Society took place at the Yorkton Public Library over the weekend.
The presentation addressed the ABC's of dementia – abilities, behaviour and communication.
"The library contacted me and they wanted to give this information to the public – they felt that it was valuable and needed to get out there," said Jackie Hofstrand, Dementia Community Co-ordinator for the Alzheimer’s Society in Yorkton, adding, "we've been partnering all the way along, I did some staff training for [the YPL] to become more dementia friendly which led into this."
Hofstrand said she was happy with the turnout for the presentation as around ten people showed up to educate themselves on the disease.
"My role is more specific to helping organizations become dementia friendly," said Hofstrand of her work, adding that she covers an area equivalent to that of the former Sunrise Health Region.
"Later in the month [I’ll be] doing a presentation in Saltcoats at the senior's centre."
Hofstrand noted the importance of holding presentations in rural communities.
"It's just getting out in those areas as well and letting them know that they don't always have to go to the city to access those supports," said Hofstrand.
"I've been doing virtual [presentations] – we've been doing virtual ABC's to the area, which is basically the same information, a little more condensed for the online audience."
When asked if she thought the program was having a positive impact, Hofstrand said, "I do – I think that it's really growing awareness,” adding, "again, the stats speak for themselves – it's growing – I think a lot of people don't know the warning signs."
Hofstrand said that on May 28 the society will hold its annual Walk for Alzheimer’s.
"It's virtual, so you can do it from anywhere," said Hofstrand.
For more provincial information on Alzheimer’s visit the society's website.
