In 2050, in Quebec, according to current projections, more than 360,000 people will live with a neurocognitive disorder.
In 2020, there were 147,000. This represents a drastic increase of 145% in 30 years.
In Abitibi-Témiscamingue, creating a fund dedicated to Alzheimer’s disease and neurocognitive disorders in the next Quebec budget would limit the use of a health system that is already under pressure for lack of manpower.
“It has to be approached as a public health issue. We do not believe that the government alone will be able to meet the many needs that will arise. We are lucky to count on community organizations and social economy enterprises, but also on people’s entourage. It’s to ensure that people are made more aware of how to intervene. We have to coordinate all of that,” explains Guillaume Parent, general manager of the Alzheimer Society in Abitibi-Témiscamingue.
Beyond the fund, the Federation requires two concrete short-term measures. It is suggested that the Health and Welfare Commissioner inherit a mandate to study the needs related to the increase in neurocognitive disorders in order to propose solutions in particular.
The Federation is also asking for the improvement and perpetuation of the aid agreement for the implementation of the referencing process. It allows health professionals to refer caregivers to the Alzheimer Society.
Again this year, the population will be called upon to contribute to increase services. The walks, a fundraising activity for the local Alzheimer Society, return at the end of May to Amos, Rouyn-Noranda and Ville-Marie.
In addition to mobilizing people around the cause, fundraising represents 20% of the organization’s annual revenue. The funds will be used for training, respite for caregivers, activities and support.
