Saskatoon merchants urged to be more Alzheimer's friendly

People suffering from Alzheimer's are often cut off from the community. So too, are their caregivers, according to a recent survey by Home Instead Senior Care.

That's why Home Instead's Greg Charyna is teaching Saskatoon business owners and their employees how to be more Alzheimer's friendly.

Charyna spoke with CBC Radio's Saskatoon Morning.

"For many caregivers, the unpredictable nature of the disease can make going out in public with their loved one intimidating."

So much so that Home Instead's recent survey of caregivers found 74 per cent reported they and their loved ones felt more isolated because of the disease. In addition, 85 per cent said the feel a reduced quality of life due to isolation.

He will be training business owners and their employees later this morning.

"Given the statistics, most businesses that deal with the public will be serving people with Alzheimer's and their families," said Charyna.

"It's critical that local businesses start working now to build Alzheimer's friendly communities to better serve their customers with Alzheimer's and other dementias."

Charyna teaches businesses to be patient, and is working with owners and their employees today at Saskatoon's Market Mall.