ALZHEIMER DISEASE STRATEGY RELEASED

The Saskatchewan Provincial Advisory Committee of Older Persons (PACOP) and the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan today identified steps for improving the well-being of the 18,000 people in Saskatchewan living with Alzheimer disease and related dementias.

Minister responsible for Seniors John Nilson met with advisory committee representative Lois Borden and Alzheimer Society Executive Director Joanne Bracken today. They presented him with the report called A Strategy for Alzheimer Disease and Related Dementias.

The strategy is a result of the Minister's requested collaboration of the two groups to develop guidelines that would ensure the best possible care and support for people with Alzheimer disease, their families, caregivers, and communities. It makes 60 recommendations that focus on seven goals: public awareness and education; diagnosis and treatment; support for individuals and caregivers; supportive environments; programs and services; education and training; and research.

"Our government is committed to providing quality health care to all Saskatchewan residents, including people with Alzheimer disease," Nilson said. "We will work with the Provincial Advisory Committee of Older Persons and the Alzheimer Society to determine the priority recommendations and how we can work together to improve the quality of life for people with Alzheimer disease."

"The purpose of the Provincial Advisory Committee of Older Persons is to bring forward and advise the Minister on issues of major concern as people age," Committee representative, Lois Borden said. "We are pleased to have had this opportunity to work with the Alzheimer Society to develop this strategy and believe that implementation of identified priorities will make a real difference to the lives of all those affected by this disease."

"The incidence of Alzheimer disease is expected to triple in the next 30 years as the baby boom generation enters the age of highest risk," Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan Executive Director Joan Bracken said. "We believe this document will provide a blueprint for our province to meet this challenge to our health care system and to our society."

Alzheimer disease is a degenerative brain disorder that affects a person's mental and physical abilities and behaviour by destroying vital brain cells. Aging is the highest risk factor for developing the disease.

For a copy of the report, please visit Saskatchewan Health's Web site at www.health.gov.sk.ca

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For More Information, Contact:

Kimberly Kratzig Health Regina Phone: (306) 787-2743