With the number of Canadians living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia steadily increasing, a new Lower Columbia partnership is stepping up to provide much-needed support.
Nav-CARE, Better at Home, and the Columbia Seniors Wellness Society have joined forces to create programs for individuals living with dementia, as well as their families and caregivers.
This spring, the partnership will launch a free, internationally recognized training program for volunteers through Nav-CARE.
The program equips participants to assist those affected by dementia, offering practical help and emotional support while connecting them to resources in their community.
Volunteer “navigators” will play a crucial role in helping people living with dementia and their families access services and improve their quality of life.
Most of the training will be conducted online, allowing volunteers to learn at their own pace.
Afterward, an in-person session will provide an opportunity to practice skills and build connections.
“If you can volunteer two to four hours per month and want to help people living with dementia in your community, we encourage you to register for Nav-CARE dementia training,” said representatives from the partnership.
A dementia diagnosis can bring a profound sense of vulnerability.
Beyond the cognitive challenges, many people also face stigma and discrimination, which can make the journey even harder.
“Together, we can change this narrative,” the partnership explained
Residents of Trail, Rossland, Warfield, Montrose, Genelle, and Fruitvale who are living with dementia — or know someone who is — are encouraged to reach out to Nav-CARE for information about local programs and services.
For more details, email navcare_dementia@trailhospice.org or call Maggie at 250-512-9112.
“There are supports available to improve quality of life,” the group emphasized. "Throughout 2025, we’ll offer initiatives to bring more understanding about dementia and the people who experience the disease.
"Together we can create compassionate, dementia-friendly communities.”
According to the Alzheimer Society of Canada, more than 500,000 Canadians are currently living with dementia, and this number is expected to double by 2050, potentially reaching 1.7 million.
Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, primarily affects older adults.
As Canada’s population ages, the prevalence of dementia is increasing. Advances in medical diagnostics and growing awareness have also led to more cases being identified.
The rising number of cases poses significant challenges for the healthcare system, caregivers, and families.
This reality highlights the urgent need for research, robust support programs, and public awareness to address the far-reaching impacts of the disease.
By coming together, initiatives like this one in the Lower Columbia are helping to build a more informed and supportive environment for those affected by dementia.
