There is a new resource in Black Diamond to help caregivers navigate the ups-and-downs of dementia.
The Diamond Valley Dementia Support Group formed in January. It aims to connect people who care for loved ones with a cognitive disability to others who have similar experiences.
The informal meetings are for people to talk about their experiences, ask for advice or get information. Meetings are held monthly, on the third Saturday, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Griffiths Senior Centre at 122 Government Rd.
Group facilitator Loral Luchia said the meetings are free and informal, and offer a safe place for people to connect.
“It is quite important that we have something out here for those that really need it,” Luchia said.
“If you want to rant and rave, or just cry, or just talk, it doesn't matter. We’re there to help each other and support each other.”
She described the group as a support for people who have loved ones living with dementia or who have lost somebody with dementia, adding those in the early stages of dementia are welcome to attend.
“They may have their own questions,” she said.
She has experience living with dementia in her family and has taken courses to familiarize herself with the different medical conditions that fall under the dementia umbrella.
Supporting people who have dementia has become a passion, she said, and she wants to do her part to end stigmas around cognitive impairment.
“Somebody with dementia is not contagious, and they are in need of love, hugs and understanding,” she said.
The support group also uses material and information from the Alzheimer Society Calgary to be informed and up-do-date about what resources and tools are available.
Upcoming plans include guest speakers and possible workshops.
The nonprofit Alzheimer's Association says nearly 750,000 people in Canada have dementia, and that Alzheimer’s accounts for 60 to 80 per cent of the total.
