A one-day workshop could make a huge difference in the lives of Invermere families and caregivers living with dementia.

The non-profit Alzheimer Society of B.C., in partnership with the Interior Health Authority, brings its workshop, Tips for the Dementia Journey, to the area on Friday, October 19.

“It is through education that caregivers understand the disease and learn effective strategies to live with changing communication and behaviours,” said Jan Robson, the Provincial Coordinator for the Society.

The workshop covers several important topics including understanding dementia, communication and behaviour, life in residential care and being an effective advocate.

It runs from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Invermere Health Unit.

Pre-registration is required as space is limited. To register, call Darryl Oakley at 250-417-6162.

Approximately one in 11 Canadians over the age of 65 has Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia. According to the 2011 census, approximately 17 per cent of the Invermere population is aged 65 and over, compared with a national figure of 14 per cent.

Local caregivers coping with the impact of Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias can get assistance by contacting the Dementia Helpline toll-free at 1-800-936-6033, Tuesdays to Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

—Contributed by Jan Robson, Alzheimer Society of B.C.