The number of Canadians living with dementia is growing — and, as the country ages, will continue to do so. By 2050, over 1.7 million people in Canada will be living with some form of dementia. That is why the Alzheimer Society of Muskoka is excited to announce the official #LightItUp Blue campaign for Alzheimer’s Awareness month, which occurs annually in January.
The Light It Up Blue campaign was created to help raise awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias in our local area, and to help our communities become more dementia friendly. For a $20 donation, you will receive a blue light bulb, which can be displayed for the whole month of January to show your support. Each $20 donation enables 1 person to attend a training session where they can learn skills to help recognize, interact with, and understand a person living with dementia when they are in the community or their business.
“Dementia-friendly communities are crucial in supporting individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia,” said Amanda Stanton, Executive Director of the Alzheimer Society of Muskoka. “By purchasing a blue lightbulb, you can help us provide training to local businesses, organizations, and community members, enabling them to better understand and support those living with dementia in our community.”
All funds raised by this campaign will stay within our local communities to support essential programs and services, but we can’t do this without our supporters. From governments and local shops to book clubs and churches, we all have a part to play in creating communities where people with dementia feel active, engaged, and valued.
In addition to the sale of blue lightbulbs, the society will also be hosting flag raisings in Parry Sound (11am on Tuesday Jan 3rd), Bracebridge (2:30pm on Wednesday Jan 4th), Huntsville (11am on Thursday Jan 5th), Lake of Bays (10am on Monday, Jan 9th), Port Carling (10am on Wednesday Jan 11th), and Gravenhurst (2:30pm on Wednesday Jan 11th) to kick off Alzheimer’s Awareness Month.
“We invite the entire community to join us at these flag raisings and show their support for those living with dementia,” said Michael Schneider, Public Education Coordinator. “Together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all members of our community.”
For more information about the #LightItUp campaign, including pick-up locations, visit the Alzheimer Society of Muskoka’s website at www.AlzheimerMuskoka.ca, or call the office at (705) 645 – 5621.
