Letter to the editor

Provincial policy isn’t adequately addressing the challenges families face on the dementia journey. With an election campaign the Alzheimer Society of B.C. is asking all candidates to make dementia a priority.

This is more urgent than ever as the estimated 85,000 people living with dementia in BC will climb to a quarter of a million by 2050.

“With the growing number of people living with dementia in British Columbia, it is essential that government officials implement appropriate measures to not only support caregivers and people living with dementia, but also to create real change in our health care system,” said Jennifer Lyle, CEO, Alzheimer Society of B.C. 

Based on consultation with people living with dementia and their caregivers, the Society wants to see candidates commit to supporting a fully funded dementia strategy by focusing on three key pillars:

• Helping break down stigma

• Improving the diagnosis experience

• Ensuring the right support is available at the right time  

The link between stigma and delayed diagnosis is well established. Stigma contributes to feelings of shame, lowers self-worth and can result in feelings of isolation. When people no longer fear the stigma that is associated with dementia, they will be more likely to seek medical advice and a diagnosis earlier, which will benefit their treatment.  

People living with dementia and their caregivers report that getting a diagnosis in BC is difficult. And once they have one, they do not get clarity about what happens next or if the supports they need will be available.

Not all doctors are equipped with the right tools or training to address the needs of people seeking a diagnosis or treatment, and an aging population has outpaced the supply of geriatricians and other specialists. A timely diagnosis gives people the opportunity to plan and access support that may help slow the progression of the disease. 

The final key to improving the experience for people in BC who are affected by dementia is ensuring that the right support is available at the right time for anyone seeking help.

Home support, adult day programs and long-term care all offer essential care and provide a vital role in supporting families on the dementia journey.  British Columbia needs to improve access to, and enhance the quality and accessibility of, existing services to ensure that people affected by dementia receive the support they need, when and where they need it. 

Alzheimer Society of  B.C.