The Sheep River Health Trust (SRHT) will soon run a Memory Workshop in Okotoks to promote good brain health.
It's scheduled for September 18th at the Okotoks & Districts Seniors Club from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Topics explored at the free event include keeping your memory sharp, normal aging brain changes, memory issues that may require help, and how to support those experiencing memory loss.
The SRHT encourages anyone interested in learning about memory function, issues, and strategies to promote brain health to come to the event.
Pat Reader-Downey, Facilitator/SRHT Board Member explains why an event like this could help those looking for more information.
"I worked for the health region for many years developing certain programs across the Province, and they have a great deal of research behind them that says when people get together around challenging issues with health, that they have a tendency to do a better job of looking after themselves, and then understanding where they could go for help and assistance," Reader-Downey explained.
"In the last few years, it's been hard to have those group discussions and time for people to get together just through Covid and all the other things that changed. We decided as a health trust board that it would be worth pursuing something along these lines to support the people in the community a little more, and to allow people to get together in a way to get information that will help them stay healthy and if they have problems they will know where to go to get some assistance."
Reader-Downey added that a lot of people are hesitant to talk about their memory issues and this is an avenue for someone to open up in learning more about the issues. It's also a place where they can ask questions and feel comfortable in an environment where others are struggling.
"In the Memory Workshop we are primarily talking about how memory works, the kind of things to try and maintain your memory, the types of things change that are normal in memory as you age, and then the kind of things you should look for if you are starting to have a problem, where you should go to help, and the kind of things if you have someone that you love has memory issues, how do you talk about it," she said.
She also mentioned that she had to deal with memory loss with her late mother and helping those with memory loss is something she is passionate about.
To register for the free Memory Workshop, visit sheepriverhealthtrust.ca.