Brittany’s story: Walking to remember Gramma and to support Alzheimer’s awareness

Extendicare Maple View in Sault St. Marie, Ont., is among Extendicare long-term care homes that are holding local walks and events in support of the Alzheimer Society of Canada.

“This Walk is very important to me, not only as a team member supporting our home’s residents, but because my grandmother had Alzheimer's and was a resident here at Maple View,” says Brittany, who works with the home’s Accounts Payable and Receivable team.

“My Gramma loved to knit,” Brittany explains, sharing memories of their visits together at Extendicare Maple View. “I was always in there with her, practicing my sewing skills as well. I think we must have had 100 pin cushions, because that was the only thing we knew how to make.”

Dementia is one of the most common reasons a person must leave their home and enter long-term care. The Alzheimer Society of Canada says the number of people living with dementia across the country is expected to increase by 2050 to nearly two million.

“It was very difficult on our family to see our Gramma forget how to do the things she once loved to do,” said Brittany. “She was an amazing baker. I will never forget the Cinderella cake she baked for my birthday one year; it was delicious! Over time after her dementia diagnosis, watching my Gramma slowly decline and forget who we were was very tough. She knew we belonged to her, but just didn't quite know who we were.”

The needs among Canadians are growing rapidly as Canada’s aging population continues to increase. As a leader in seniors care, Extendicare is proud to continue our support of the Alzheimer Society of Canada’s vital efforts to strengthen community resources for Canadians living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

“I am very happy to be a part of this,” says Brittany.

Across Extendicare, each event and every step taken hold special meaning; to remember, honour, and support people living with dementia today and in the future.

To learn how walking can help boost mental and physical wellness, read our blog: The benefits of walking: Making every step count in more ways than one for Alzheimer’s and dementia