Northeast Alzheimer Society Mobilizes for Support as Cases Surge

January marks Alzheimer’s Awareness Month in Canada, prompting chapters of the Alzheimer Society across northeastern Ontario to enhance fundraising efforts while highlighting available support and educational resources for residents. In Sault Ste. Marie, advocates are promoting the “Forget No One” campaign, which encourages individuals to share their personal experiences with dementia. This initiative aims to foster broader discussions about the disease, as projections for its prevalence paint a worrying picture.

Terry Caporossi, executive director of the Alzheimer Society of Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma District, emphasized the urgency of raising awareness. The Alzheimer Society of Canada estimates that by 2050, more than 1.7 million Canadians will be living with dementia, a figure that is roughly three times the current number. A recent poll revealed that over half of Canadians harbor concerns about developing dementia at some point in their lives.

“The numbers are alarming,” Caporossi stated. “Our role is to ensure we’re providing adequate levels of support for those living with dementia and their care partners in our community.”

In Sault Ste. Marie alone, approximately 3,500 residents are currently diagnosed with a dementia-related disease, with thousands more experiencing cognitive impairments. Caporossi noted a significant challenge: many individuals delay seeking help until their condition progresses.

“People often wait to ask questions or seek support because they fear what a diagnosis might entail,” he explained. “Those dealing with memory loss frequently do not think of the Alzheimer Society as their first choice. We aim to be that outreach for our community.”

The Alzheimer Society of Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma District provides essential services, including recreational programming and counseling, to hundreds of local residents affected by dementia. Caporossi stressed that early access to these services can significantly improve quality of life, enabling individuals to remain active within their communities for longer periods.

“Accessing our services earlier allows clients to receive support for an extended duration,” he said. “This not only benefits them but also supports their care partners.”

Financially, the local chapter relies on 75 percent funding from the Ontario Ministry of Health, with the remaining 25 percent—approximately $500,000—needing to be raised annually through community efforts. The economic climate in Sault Ste. Marie has added to the challenge, particularly with the impending layoffs of 1,000 workers at Algoma Steel, making fundraising more difficult.

“Our organization and others in the community are competing for the same donor dollars,” Caporossi said. “We have been fortunate to receive wonderful support over the years, but we need to ensure that continues.”

Looking ahead, Caporossi advocates for enhanced support for Alzheimer Society chapters in northern Ontario. “We must work collaboratively with our ministries to guarantee that people living with dementia receive the necessary support and services, and to help them understand the value of what we provide.”

As part of this month’s awareness efforts, Caporossi and his team are calling on the community to “Turn the Sault Blue.” This social media campaign encourages residents to adorn their homes with blue lights, while local businesses are invited to display signs promoting the initiative.

Raising awareness about dementia and the available support is crucial as the number of those affected continues to rise. By fostering open dialogue and encouraging early intervention, the Alzheimer Society aims to make a significant impact on the lives of individuals and families grappling with the challenges of dementia.