As January unfolds, we welcome Alzheimer Awareness Month, a dedicated period aimed at raising awareness about the profound impact of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

In Canada, the staggering statistic of around 750,000 individuals living with dementia underscores the urgency of this initiative. In the Waterloo Wellington region specifically, about 16,500 people are diagnosed with dementia, with the total number of those affected—considering family and caregivers—soaring to approximately 41,000.

Daily, more than 350 Canadians receive a new dementia diagnosis, and with the aging population, it's predicted that by 2030, this number could reach one million. The burden of caregiving is significant; an average family member spends around 26 hours per week supporting someone with dementia, putting immense pressure on Canada’s already strained health care systems.

Staying Connected and Engaged

In such challenging circumstances, the importance of community, connection, and support cannot be overstated. Staying engaged in community activities combats social isolation, while cognitive stimulation and physical exercise are vital for slowing the progress of dementia.

The Alzheimer Society of Waterloo Wellington's Crucial Role

The Alzheimer Society of Waterloo Wellington (ASWW) is at the forefront of this battle, providing crucial support, education, and advocacy aimed at enhancing the lives of those affected by dementia.

They focus not only on raising awareness but also on promoting creativity and community involvement as essential components of their mission.

Unleash Your Creativity: The Hoodie Design Contest

This year, ASWW invites everyone to participate in their innovative Hoodie Design Contest. Open to individuals of all ages and design skills, the contest encourages participants to produce a hoodie that resonates with themes of hope, resilience, and community support for families grappling with Alzheimer’s disease.

The winning design will receive not only visibility on ASWW's social media platforms but also a fantastic reward— a $200 Michaels gift card! This is an exceptional chance for communities to unite, showcase their artistic visions, and raise awareness for Alzheimer's in a fun and creative manner.

Submissions are now open, and all hopeful designers can check the details and submit their artwork through the official contest form.

Act Fast!

Don’t delay! The deadline for submissions is January 23, 2025. Get inspired and submit your designs now.

Continuous Support and Resources

In addition to the hoodie contest, the ASWW offers ongoing services such as educational workshops, support groups for caregivers, and personalized consultations.

Each of these initiatives is aimed at ensuring that no one faces dementia alone.

Join Us in the Fight Against Alzheimer’s

This January, let’s band together to elevate awareness, spark creativity, and extend support to those living with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers.

Each act matters, whether it's creating a hoodie design, making a donation, or volunteering your time. Together, we can make a significant impact!