Print
Email
As part of March’s annual Brain Awareness Week, Deputy Speaker and MLA for Richmond East Linda Reid addressed the B.C. Legislature stressing the importance of brain health, dementia research and support for caregivers.
Reid's comments urged people to take care of their brain health and learn healthy brain strategies; keeping in mind that what is good for their heart health is also good for their brain health.
In her statement Reid referred to the Alzheimer Society’s Rising Tide study, which highlights the growing number of people living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia in Canada and the associated social and economic costs.
“These rising numbers reinforce the need for British Columbians to learn more about healthy eating and regular exercise,” said Reid.
Brain Awareness Week is a global campaign to increase awareness about the progress and benefits of brain research.
“Research is key to uncovering inroads to prevention and possibly discovering a treatment to delay the onset of this disease and frankly to reduce its impact.”
Reid pointed to current research projects at the UBC Brain Research Centre that are investigating prevention strategies and treatment options to move us one step closer to the causes and cure for dementia.
While there is hope for the future as research continues to make important advances, dementia is a disease that has wide-ranging effects for not only those who receive the diagnosis, but for those around them also.
“Dementia can profoundly impact the lives of those closest to the person, including caregivers, family members and friends.”
Recognizing their enormous contribution, Reid dedicated her comments in the Legislature to all the family members and friends around the province who are caring for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
“I believe our compassion and our outreach need to continue to ensure that caregivers have the support they require,” said Reid.
"We at the Alzheimer Society of B.C. are asking British Columbians to raise their voices for people in our province who are living with dementia and their caregivers," said Barbara Lindsay, senior manager of advocacy and public policy.
Join us in the fight against dementia and speak to your MLA about how caregivers must have the support they need. Find out more.
Related News
The January 2012 edition of the First Link® bulletin features the annual fundraising event Investors Group Walk for Memories. Read more...
The holidays are a time of family, friends and generosity. The Alzheimer Society of B.C. is a grateful recipient of many end-of-year donations during this time of giving. We want to take a moment to put a face to those who receive your support. Read More...
The Alzheimer Society of B.C. will begin offering the complete Family Caregiver Series education program to Cantonese-speaking families in Richmond. Read more...
On Saturday, Sept. 10, 2011, the 9th Annual Ralph Robinson Memorial Golf Tournament was held at Skaha Meadows Golf Course in Penticton. Read more...
On Oct. 14, 2011 a free public presentation “Alzheimer's disease: Can we diagnose it earlier and modify its progression?” takes place in Vancouver as part of the “Dialogue of Aging” series. Read more...
