Walk combats Alzheimer's disease

Susan and Boyd Wylie lost their mothers to Alzheimer’s disease and the Investors Group Walk for Memories is dedicated to them.

They founded a support group in Langley for adult children of Alzheimer’s patients to help people learn about the disease and provide support for the loved ones of sufferers.

Each year the walk is dedicated to someone connected to Alzheimer’s and related dementias.

“The disease takes a tremendous toll

on these women who eventually

provide round-the-clock care.”

- Jude Weir of the Alzheimer Society of B.C.

“This fun-filled event is a great way to support families in our community who are impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias,” said Weir. “Funds raised help ensure people with dementia and their caregivers have access to information, support services and education. They also bring us one step closer to finding a cure.”

The goal of the walk on Jan. 25 is to raise funds for the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s work and spotlight the disease.

This year’s theme is, “The 72%,” because almost three quarters of patients are women. It aims to inform women in their 40s and older about the warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, brain health, and how the programs and services of the non-profit Alzheimer Society of B.C. can help. 

More than 70,000 people in B.C. have dementia.

More women than men are living with Alzheimer’s disease because they live longer and age is a significant risk factor.

Women also account for 70 per cent of family caregivers.

“The disease takes a tremendous toll on these women who eventually provide round-the-clock care. The burden is especially high for women raising families and holding down jobs,” said Jude Weir, the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s Support & Education coordinator for Langley/North Surrey.

“This fun-filled event is a great way to support families in our community who are impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias,” said Weir. “Funds raised help ensure people with dementia and their caregivers have access to information, support services and education. They also bring us one step closer to finding a cure.”

Participants can still register to participate in the Investors Group Walk for Memories, which starts at noon. To register or donate, visit www.walkformemories.com. Registration is also on-site at noon in the Aldergrove Athletic Park/Rotary Field House.