Dementia awareness video in Tagalog launched in Canada

TORONTO – The Alzheimer Society Toronto (AST) has unveiled “Pag-usapan natin ang Dementia (Let’s talk about Dementia),” an educational video in Tagalog, designed to facilitate conversations among Filipino Canadians and offer foundational knowledge about dementia.

“Our aim is to equip caregivers, healthcare professionals, and the wider community in (multicultural) groups with awareness and understanding of dementia,” said Julie Wong, AST senior manager of education and community programs.

“Moreover, we seek to address cultural nuances such as beliefs, practices, and barriers related to dementia care through this medium, thereby empowering community organizations serving minority populations.”

Immigrants often feel isolated and experience barriers to accessing supports that promote well-being. Image: “Pag-usapan natin ang Dementia (Let’s talk about Dementia)” video

A new study released by the Alzheimer Society of Canada earlier this year, “The Landmark Study: The Many Faces of Dementia in Canada” revealed that people living with dementia are as diverse as the range of diseases and conditions affecting the brain.

Without tailored services and supports to meet these unique needs, there’s a risk of failing the increasing number of individuals living with dementia and their caregivers, according to the study.

Recognizing the complexity and diversity of its communities, the AST  is committed to providing inclusive services and programs to enhance healthcare literacy in multicultural settings.

By 2030, nearly one million Canadians will be living with dementia, impacting various sectors and cultures. To drive positive change, there’s a pressing need to combat stigma, discrimination and stereotypes.

Dave Spedding, CEO of AST, emphasized the need to integrate diversity and inclusion into a comprehensive strategy for dementia prevention and management.

“Racialized families and immigrants often feel isolated and experience a number of barriers to accessing supports that promote well-being,” Spedding said. “Tailored support that acknowledges their unique needs can make a significant difference.”

This project has been made possible by the Government of Canada through the Canadian Heritage Department’s Community Support, Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Initiatives Program.

The Alzheimer Society of Toronto provides free counseling and education to people with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, their families and caregivers. They deliver specialized training and professional development for frontline health-care providers, and engage in public education and awareness events to increase accessibility to dementia information.

“The Landmark Study: The Many Faces of Dementia in Canada” is the second of three volumes detailing the demographic, social and economic impact of dementia in Canada.

This is one of the first Canadian studies that seeks to better understand the many faces of dementia and find equitable solutions for future dementia challenges, so that no one is left behind.

With the rapid rise of Canada’s aging population, the study projects that the number of people living with dementia in the country will increase by 187 percent by 2050.

Watch the video: