Mon Sep 16 14:43:04 UTC 2024: ## Newfoundland and Labrador Launches Initiative to Build Dementia-Friendly Communities
**St. John’s, NL** – The Newfoundland and Labrador government today announced the launch of a new website and media campaign aimed at creating more dementia-inclusive communities. The initiative, which complements the province’s Dementia Care Action Plan, seeks to raise awareness and understanding of dementia, as well as provide information on services and resources available to individuals and families living with the condition.
The Honourable John Hogan, KC, Minister of Health and Community Services, unveiled the initiative at a press conference hosted by the Alzheimer Society of Newfoundland and Labrador. Minister Hogan emphasized the importance of reducing stigma associated with dementia and improving access to support systems.
“Building communities that are more inclusive and dementia-friendly starts with increasing awareness and understanding around dementia,” stated Minister Hogan. “This awareness campaign and website builds on our commitment through our Dementia Care Action Plan to ensure that individuals living with dementia are meaningfully engaged in their communities and supported to age well and live with dignity and independence.”
Shirley Lucas, Chief Executive Officer of the Alzheimer Society of Newfoundland and Labrador, praised the partnership with the government, emphasizing the significant impact dementia has on the province.
“The impact of dementia in our province is huge and the Alzheimer Society welcomes partnerships with the government to build dementia friendly communities,” said Ms. Lucas. “This collaboration has been impactful in helping us increase the awareness of dementia in the province and encouraging the development of dementia-friendly communities where people living with dementia, their families and care partners feel included and supported.”
The new website, accessible at [link to website], provides information on dementia, resources available in the province, and tips on how to make communities more inclusive for those living with dementia. The awareness campaign is funded through a joint effort between the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Dementia Strategic Fund and the provincial government’s Dementia Care Action Plan. The Plan, which receives an annual investment of $3.5 million, aims to create a more integrated system of care that supports individuals living with dementia to achieve their life goals and enjoy their lives.
The initiative aligns with the recommendations of Health Accord NL, focusing on the implementation of actions to build a more integrated continuum of care, enabling individuals to age well in place.
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