Local chapter of Alzheimer’s Society says need for long term care beds is growing

CALGARY – Val Prior’s husband Les was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s three years ago.

After years of caring for him, she moved Les to Walden Heights AgeCare, a southeast seniors’ community.

“It’s devastating. I felt like I was betraying him. And I still feel that way. I am learning not to feel guilty for having made that choice but it doesn’t get easier it is getting harder much harder,” says Prior.

Les’ needs have become much greater since his move to Walden Heights. He now on a wait list for a long term care bed.

“We’re looking at a growth in the community size doubling by 2038 and tripling by 2050… We really need to do something significant.”

By 2031, an estimated 1.4 million Canadians will be suffering from dementia.

Earlier in October, Health Minister Rona Ambrose announced her department and the province are now in the early stages of a national dementia strategy.

Families dealing with dementia patients say that can’t happen soon enough.

“As time goes on, it’s getting more and more difficult emotionally, for both of us. It’s quite heartbreaking to have to say goodbye again and again and again,” says Prior.

“His brain is dying and it’s taking the family with it. Care giving is not for the faint of heart.”

With files from Carolyn Kury de Castillo.