Health Minister Ted Flemming (submitted)
Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia impact more than 9000 New Brunswickers or 5.5 per cent of the senior population.
Consultations are underway to develop a dementia strategy and action plan to support New Brunswickers living with the disease.
Many cases are undiagnosed or unreported meaning the actual number of people affected could range from 12,000 to 14,000.
After reading about #ilivewithdementia, Irene was inspired to tell her own story about her experiences with stigma against people living with #dementia and their caregivers: https://t.co/B3NCBUBXf2 pic.twitter.com/HJ4Dx3QDK1
— Alzheimer Society (@AlzCanada) February 22, 2019
Those numbers are expected to double by 2038 according to a report by the Alzheimer Society of New Brunswick.
“For individuals and families living with dementia, the experience can be challenging,” said Flemming. “The more we learn about this disease, the better prepared we are to deal with it. Each person has a unique journey and experience to share. Many of us have been touched by dementia, whether it is a family member, a friend, a colleague or neighbour.”
The Department of Health is working on creating the action plan with the Department of Social Development, the two provincial health authorities, the Extra-Mural Program and Ambulance New Brunswick.
Ideas can be submitted online or through voicemail and submissions will be accepted until April 16th.
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