The Alzheimer Society of Grey-Bruce is pleased that more than $100 million dollars over three years has been confirmed in the Ontario budget for a Dementia Strategy to support people with dementia and those who care for them. Across Ontario we have supported many months of consultation and advocacy with clients, their family members, their friends, our staff and volunteers.

This Dementia Strategy will include funding to expand province‐wide access to community programs and other investments to enhance access to care, information and support from as early as possible once a diagnosis is made. We fully support the plan to improve training and education in dementia care for personal support workers, physicians, nurses and other front‐line workers. We are encouraged that the Province will invest an additional $20 million in 2017 for respite care.

"What impact will this funding have here in Grey-Bruce? Time will tell." Said Deborah Barker, executive director of the Alzheimer Society of Grey-Bruce.

"We have our work cut out to advocate for funds to be directed here; to support our clients and their families, to support caregivers working in the community, retirement homes, long term care homes and Day Away programs. Training and education in dementia care will be funded and we want to ensure our communities can reap those benefits."

Barker said The Alzheimer Society of Grey-Bruce will continue their advocacy efforts on behalf of all those impacted be Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.

"We will work hard to ensure that they have access to the resources and services they need to live as well, and for as long as possible at home and in the community."

source: media release, Alzheimer Society of Grey-Bruce