January is Alzheimer's Awareness Month

January 2016 has been proclaimed Alzheimer's Awareness Month in Nova Scotia.

Alzheimer's disease and similar degenerative disorders affect the brain, causing memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language.

"Many Nova Scotians have active and productive lives long after being diagnosed, and the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia wants all of us to keep an open mind about Alzheimer's," said Health and Wellness Minister Leo Glavine.

More than 17,000 Nova Scotians are living with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia, and diagnoses are expected to double by 2038.

There are many myths that can isolate people living with it. In order to help individuals living with the disease, their families and friends, caregivers and researchers, the society is encouraging Nova Scotians to learn more about the disease.

More information about Alzheimer's can be found at www.alzheimer.ca/ns .