We call on the government of Prince Edward Island to commit to implement a dementia care strategy for the many Islanders affected by Alzheimer disease or related dementias.
We also urge the government to fund the First Link program, a fundamental part of the dementia care strategy.
The burden of care is already too great for the families and loved ones of Alzheimer’s and related dementias who spend countless unpaid hours of care. PEI’s families need more access to respite care, more education and resources after diagnosis and flexible homecare options. A First Link program connects people with Alzheimer's or a related dementia to their local Alzheimer Society and other community resources.
The Alzheimer Society is asking the province to help people living with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers by adding or improving four areas of support in the province:
1. Investment in early diagnosis for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia patients.
2. Funding of the First Link program, which places the Alzheimer Society as the first point of contact in for care and resources.
3. Access to all treatment options
4. More resources for family members and loved ones to reduce the burden of care at home.
With expected growth in the prevalence of the Alzheimer disease, we need an investment now!
I urge you and your government to implement a dementia care strategy and fund the First Link program which will reduce the burden on Islanders living the journey of this disease.
