Survey results revealed recently by the Alzheimer Society of Canada show a treatment gap for Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.
The survey indicates that almost half of respondents (44 per cent) waited at least a year to see a doctor because they thought their symptoms were simply "old age."
"Alzheimer's disease is now among the top 10 leading causes of death in Canada," said Jean Blake, CEO, Alzheimer Society of B.C. "Early detection and diagnosis is critical to ensuring proper support, care and treatment of the illness."
In addition to accessing education and information resources to better understand the symptoms being experienced and the changes that can be expected, individuals with a diagnosis of dementia can explore treatment options earlier in the progression of the disease and begin to develop support networks.
The opportunity to plan ahead also allows families to make key financial and care decisions while the person with dementia is still functioning at the highest possible level.
In order to help raise awareness and encourage individuals concerned about memory loss to seek diagnosis from their doctors, the Alzheimer Society of B.C. has launched www.letsfaceitbc.ca. During January, Alzheimer Awareness Month, visitors can:
• Experience day-to-day life from the perspective of Jim Mann, a person in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease, via the In Jim's Shoes daily posts (also available on Twitter at @AlzheimerBC or search #injimsshoes)
• Access information about warning signs and preparing for a diagnosis
• Find and reach out to their local MLA to encourage the government to support the expansion of First Link(r)
• Find a local Alzheimer Society of B.C. Resource Centre for information, education, and support