CNC researchers say Northern BC faces unique challenges regarding dementia

A series of researchers at the College of New Caledonia have published an online dementia guide for the north central region of BC.

The report called Mind the Gap: Dementia Guidance for the North is now available to educators and the public.

CNC Psychology Instructor and Research Lead Dr. Dinesh Ramoo presented these and other research findings from the dementia guidance project at the Canadian Psychological Association’s annual national convention in Ottawa.

Research Associate Salima Somani and a group of Student Research Assistants, Dr. Ramoo consulted with family caregivers, health care and wellness providers, and post-secondary students in rural and remote regions, as well as among ethnic minorities and Indigenous populations.

Eight dementia awareness workshops were conducted throughout CNC’s service region.

In addition, Dr. Tamara Chambers-Richards (Dean, CNC School of Health Sciences), Troy Morin (Associate Dean, CNC School of Human Services University Transfer and Business Studies) and Corinne George (Regional Principle, CNC Burns Lake campus) provided health care expertise, sharing insights on Indigenous-specific issues and facilitating First Nations connections.

“It’s important for CNC that our research projects directly benefit the communities we serve. Our researchers collaborate with a wide range of partners in the public and private sector and gather community input to address social issues. We also engage student researchers so they can apply their skills and expertise beyond the classroom to help solve problems for local causes,” said Dr. Tamara Chambers-Richards – Dean, CNC School of Health Sciences.

The report found patients in rural, remote and Indigenous communities are often left isolated and vulnerable because there aren’t enough local health care providers, nearby family members, care facilities or transportation options for them.

This lack of resources can also mean they don’t receive a timely diagnosis or proper care close to where they and their families live.

Tomorrow (Saturday) is World Alzheimer’s Day. Approximately 750-thousand Canadians are living with the disease – a figure that is expected to more than double by 2050.