Saskatchewan Focuses on Support, Awareness as alzheimer’s Cases Expected to Triple
Swift Current, SK – As World Alzheimer’s Day is observed today, Saskatchewan residents are being reminded of the growing need for support adn resources as the number of individuals diagnosed with the disease is projected to triple by 2050. Currently, approximately 20,000 people in the province are living with Alzheimer’s, with an average of 10 new diagnoses made each day.
Alzheimer’s disease,the most common form of dementia,disproportionately affects older populations,with the risk doubling every five years after the age of 65. While saskatchewan’s rate of diagnosis is consistent with the rest of Canada, the anticipated surge in cases underscores the importance of proactive support systems.
Stacie Noble-Wiebe, First Link Coordinator at the Cypress Resource Centre of the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan, serves individuals and families in Swift Current, Shaunavon, Gull Lake, Eastend, and a large portion of southwest Saskatchewan. Noble-Wiebe emphasizes a team-based approach to navigating the challenges of an Alzheimer’s diagnosis.
“It takes a team to help individuals and families navigate the Alzheimer’s journey,” she stated.
The Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan offers a range of free programs and resources, including virtual and in-person support groups. A Swift Current Care Partner Support group meets on the second Thursday of each month from 1:30-3:30 pm at the Burnham Room, first United Church (223 3rd Avenue NE). Upcoming virtual events include “Navigating Home Safety with Dementia” on September 24th from 7:00-8:30pm,and “virtual Care Essentials” begining October 7th. A “Virtual Minds in Motion” program is scheduled for October 6 – December 8, 2025.
For immediate assistance, the Dementia Helpline is available at 1-877-949-4141, Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm. The SaskAbilities Dementia Pleasant Life Enrichment Program,coordinated by Lindsay Tetrault,can be reached at 1-833-526-5299.
Further information can be obtained by contacting Stacie Noble-Wiebe directly at cypress@alzheimer.sk.ca or 306-673-2685 (available Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8:30am-5:00pm). Program details and event schedules are available on the Alzheimer society of saskatchewan website.
