Improving Dementia Care in Ontario

WHEREAS: Alzheimer’s disease affects over 250,000 people in the province of Ontario.

WHEREAS: It is estimated that approximately 400,000 individuals will be diagnosed with dementia by 2030.

WHEREAS: By the year 2050, more than 1.7 million Canadians are expected to be living with dementia, with an average of 685 individuals diagnosed each day.

WHEREAS: Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging and is irreversible.

WHEREAS: 69% of LTC residents are living with dementia.

WHEREAS: 45% of care partners providing care to people living with dementia exhibit symptoms of distress. This is almost twice the rate compared to care, partners of older adults with health conditions other than dementia, which is only 26%.

WHEREAS: Caregivers of those living with dementia decrease their participation in the economy.

WHEREAS: Upstream investments in dementia, prevention, and care are needed to reduce strain on capacity and resources.

WHEREAS: Strategies to mitigate stigma and combat ageism should be at the heart of the strategy.

THEREFORE, WE THE UNDERSIGNED PETITION THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF ONTARIO AS FOLLOWS:

To urge all Members of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to build on the progress this government has made on building a patient-centred home and community care system.