Statement by the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development for Alzheimer Awareness Month

GATINEAU, QC, Jan. 20, 2016 /CNW Telbec/ - As Canada's Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, I would like to highlight Alzheimer Awareness Month this January by recognizing the significant role that family and friends play every day in providing care and support to those with dementia.

Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia. According to the Alzheimer's Society of Canada, approximately 747,000 Canadians are living with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.

Family and friend caregivers support those with dementia to maintain a healthy quality of life. An average of 74 hours a week is required from family and friends to help support those living with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.

I invite Canadians to meet dedicated caregivers through a new video series available on Canada.ca/Seniors. The videos feature personal experiences of family caregivers and views of Canadian experts in the field of dementia. Caregivers tell their own story about the realities of providing care and support to someone with dementia. The videos raise awareness of the importance for caregivers of maintaining social connections and reaching out for assistance.

I encourage Canadians to acknowledge Alzheimer Awareness Month and to learn more about the realities of dementia care.

Associated Links

Information for Caregivers     
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SOURCE Employment and Social Development Canada

Media Relations Office, Employment and Social Development Canada, 819-994-5559, [email protected]