Surrey, B.C. – The City of Surrey, in partnership with the Alzheimer Society of B.C., hosted the South Asian Forum: Brain Health on Feb. 8, 2025. The forum, held at City Hall Centre Stage, provided essential education, resources, and support to families affected by dementia in the South Asian community. A highlight of this year’s event was the launch of the Punjabi version of the Healthy Active Aging Guide.
“As Surrey’s population ages, events like the South Asian Forum: Brain Health plays an integral role in the well-being of our senior citizens and their loved ones,” said Mayor Brenda Locke. “In order to reach as wide of an audience as possible, the City’s Healthy Active Aging Guide was launched in Punjabi for this year’s event. Providing resources in multiple languages is part of the Multilingual Communications Policy that Council approved in 2024 and is a critical step in ensuring that all members of our community have access to the information they need to maintain their health as they age.”
The Healthy Active Aging guide offers important contact numbers, maps, and information on safety, security, technology, transportation, home care programs, caregiving, and recreation opportunities in Surrey. Available online or for pick up at a City facility or library.
“In partnership with City of Surrey and presenting sponsor Gowling WLG the forum was a great success, with strong engagement from the South Asian community. It’s incredible to see members in the community come together so we can continue the important conversations, breakdown the stigma, and show families they are not alone on the dementia journey,” said Joti Sandhu, Support and Education Coordinator, Alzheimer Society of B.C.
In addition to the presentations, attendees had the chance to connect with local organizations offering dementia support, further fostering a sense of community among those affected by the disease.
The City of Surrey is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for older adults. This guide and forum support the framework outlined in the Age Friendly Action Plan guided by principles of inclusion, community engagement, and respect. Learn more at surrey.ca/seniors.
