In June, the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, the Federal Minister of Health. Announced the release of the first Canadian Dementia Strategy called, Together We Aspire.
The vision for the strategy is as follows: “A Canada in which all people living with dementia and caregivers are valued and supported, quality of life is optimized, and dementia is prevented, well understood, and effectively treated.” Who can argue with this outcome?
THE STRATEGY
The strategy focuses on the following 3 national objectives which, in my opinion, can act as a catalyst for positive change for all Canadians:
- Preventing dementia;
- Advancing therapies, and finding a cure;
- Improving the quality of life of people living with dementia and caregivers.
The strategy also outlines 5 primary pillars essential in achieving these national objectives. They are:
- Collaboration — Achieving progress on the strategy is a shared responsibility among governments, researchers, community organizations, people living with dementia, caregivers and many others.
- Research and innovation — Promoting research and innovation will address knowledge gaps. Develop therapies that will improve the quality of life of people with dementia and caregivers, and move us towards a cure.
- Surveillance and data — Enhanced surveillance and data will help us to understand the scope of dementia in Canada. And focus our efforts and resources where they are most needed and will be most effective.
- Information resources — The development of culturally appropriate and culturally safe information resources on dementia. That will facilitate the work of care providers to provide quality care and help all Canadians to better understand dementia.
- Skilled workforce — Having a sufficient and skilled workforce will support dementia research efforts and provide evidence-informed care. Which will improve the quality of life of people living with dementia and caregivers.
THE SOURCES
I was pleased to read that various sources and parties were involved in the creation and shaping of the strategy over the past few years. Input came from governments, health professionals, consultants, researchers, people living with dementia and their caregivers.
PROFESSIONAL OPINION
In my opinion, it is going to take time. As well as lots of support, encouragement and collaboration from all levels of government and different sectors. As the government implements the areas of focus highlighted in this strategy. Despite having the urgency of change felt by so many families across Canada. Their patience will be required as changes take shape.
From my perspective as a dementia consultant and educator. There are still many municipalities across Canada which are not yet dementia-friendly or even senior-friendly. These are projects which can bring about direct impact and can now be initiated on the municipal level in parallel with the national dementia strategy. Local social environments have significant impact on the well-being of community members. Especially those living with dementia and their caregivers. Strong social support networks. We need a municipality that supports and encourages active independent living. And a community that understands dementia. They are the key to reducing the risk of social isolation for those with dementia.
THE VILLAGE LANGLEY
With the opening of The Village Langley, Canada’s first true ‘Dementia Village’. New ways of providing supportive living environments are being explored. They need to expand and re-shape the traditional models of long-term care. Introducing the new person-centered approaches to care for those with dementia. Focusing on the ability of a person in making their own choices and allow them freedom of movement. This can reduce the anxieties and frustrations of feeling ‘locked up’. I have even thought of my own situation. What if I end up with a progressive dementia? I would prefer to live in a safe environment. Where I could enjoy my independence and freedom in a village-like environment. Better yet in the community I’m familiar with. I would love to be in a safe place with helpful technologies. And neighbours who would be understanding and supportive of my impairments.
MY MISSION
Since 1995, I have been on a mission to help improve the quality of life for those living with dementia. As well as their families and caregivers. I’m very pleased to see our government of Canada not only recognizing this need but also taking action. Especially since, according to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada, more than half a million Canadians live with Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias. Sadly, by 2031, that number is expected to rise to almost a million.
Let’s continue to stay hopeful and to advocate for better dementia care for all, as someday we ourselves may be directly affected.
