Residents of Waterloo Wellington are stepping forward on Jan. 25 in support of people affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia.
Last year, Waterloo Wellington residents raised more than $160,000 for programs and services for the 10,000 individuals living with dementia in this community, and for other critical activities like education and public awareness.
The Alzheimer Society Walk for Memories is the most important fundraising activity for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia in Canada, society officials state in a press release. Waterloo Wellington is one of 65 communities in Ontario to raise funds and awareness. Supporters can donate or register to walk and collect pledges at www.walkformemories.ca.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting men and women of all races, religions and socio-economic backgrounds. No one is immune, and changes in the brain that lead to dementia can begin more than 20 years before symptoms appear.
Today, one in 10 Ontario seniors is living with Alzheimer’s or other dementia.
“Age remains the biggest risk factor to dementia. With huge numbers of baby boomers now entering the years of highest risk, if they live long enough, one in three will eventually develop Alzheimer’s,” says Jennifer Gillies, executive director of the Alzheimer Society Waterloo Wellington. “When you walk, you send a message of hope to the 10,000 people living with dementia in this community, and to the thousands who love them and care for them. When you fundraise, you make them the promise that help is available.”
Walk for Memories is a great way to stay healthy and lower the risk of dementia, organizers note. Regular physical activity benefits the brain by encouraging the development of new cell connections.
Participants can walk for fun, fitness or to raise much-needed funds and awareness.
The county walk will be held Jan. 25 at the Mount Forest and District Sports Complex from 9am to 12pm. For information visit www.walkformemories.ca or call 1-866-317-6737.
