Myths vs. Realities: Understanding dementia after diagnosis
Monday, January 28, 2013, 6 p.m.
Gladstone Hotel
1214 Queen Street West, Toronto
RSVP: cafescientifique@cihr-irsc.gc.ca
Memory loss is a frightening concept. It’s estimated that, in 20 years, the number of Canadians living with dementia will double to 1.4 million. There are many forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia (caused by strokes). While there are treatments that can slow the progression of memory loss caused by these diseases, no cures currently exist.
According to a recent poll by Alzheimer’s Disease International, 40% of people with dementia reported that they felt others avoided them after their diagnosis. Stereotypes and misinformation prevent them from getting the help that they need. These misunderstandings also lead to myths that will have a negative psychological impact on people with dementia, as well as on their caregivers and family members.
Join us at an informal discussion with Canadian experts to find out how people with dementia move on with their lives after diagnosis, as well as other realities that can help break the stigma associated with these diseases.
This free event is hosted by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, its Institute of Aging and the Alzheimer Society of Canada. Space is limited.
Experts
Julie Foley
Caregiver
Health Care Consultant
Pia Kontos, PhD
Research Scientist
Toronto Rehabilitation Institute
University Health Network
Assistant Professor
Dalla Lana School of Public Health
University of Toronto
Christopher Patterson, MD, FRCPC
Physician, Geriatric Services
Hamilton Health Sciences
Professor, Division of Geriatric Medicine
Department of Medicine
McMaster University
Moderator
Yves Joanette, PhD
Scientific Director, CIHR Institute of Aging