Currently, in Manitoba, nine people per day are diagnosed with dementia, and that number is expected to increase over the next 20 years.

But Nicole McDonald, the Senior Manager for Dementia-Friendly Communities with the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, says changes to treatment and more resources are having a positive impact.

“Of just over 20,000 Manitobans living with Dementia, 61% of them are residing at home and I think it’s a big misconception that when we receive a Dementia diagnosis, we are quickly moved into a personal care home or a long term care facility.”

She added that the Society’s upcoming Care for You conference in Winnipeg brings together resources to make communities more inclusive and homes more manageable to keep dementia patients in familiar surroundings.

The conference takes place Saturday, October 18th and space is still available.

For more details, catch Thompson Today this afternoon at 12:40 and 5:10.