Embrace the Canadian Charter of Rights for People with Dementia

On September 21, we recognize World Alzheimer’s Day, a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia.

There are more than 25 different conditions that can cause dementia, and the most common form of dementia is Alzheimer’s Disease.  Furthermore, it is estimated that the percentage of those living with dementia in Canada will increase by 187% from 2020 to 2050. (Alzheimer Society of Canada)

It’s likely that each of us knows a friend, family member, or neighbour living with dementia.  We all have an important part in addressing this reality with compassion, dignity, and respect.

While all Canadians are covered by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedom, the stigma and discrimination experienced by those living with dementia can pose obstacles to their ability to exercise these rights.  To address this potential inequity, the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada created the Canadian Charter of Rights for People with Dementia.  (https://alzheimer.ca/en/take-action/change-minds/canadian-charter-rights-people-dementia)

This article presents the Canadian Charter of Rights for People with Dementia and encourages everyone, especially our service, professional and business communities, to consider integrating these principles into their daily operations. This not only contributes toward a dignified and respectful experience for their clients and customers but also enhances the overall quality of services for all persons within our communities.

A Blueprint for Respect and Dignity

The Canadian Charter of Rights for People with Dementia is a cornerstone document that outlines seven specific rights designed to protect and empower those living with dementia. Here’s a brief look at each right:

1. Freedom from Discrimination
   Individuals with dementia have the right to be free from all forms of discrimination, making certain they are treated with the same respect as any other person.
2. Full Access to Civic and Legal Rights
   This right ensures that people with dementia can benefit fully from Canada’s civic and legal protections, reinforcing their status as equal citizens.
3. Participation in Policy Development
   People with dementia have the right to participate actively in the creation and implementation of policies that affect their lives, giving them a voice in important decisions.
4. Access to Support for Independence
   Individuals have the right to the support they need to live as independently and actively as possible, promoting their physical, cognitive, social, and spiritual well-being.
5. Informed Decision-Making
   This right guarantees that people with dementia receive the necessary information and support to make informed decisions about their care throughout all stages of the condition.
6. Accountability of Professionals
   Professionals involved in the care of individuals with dementia must be trained appropriately, be respectful and accountable for upholding these rights, ensuring equal access to treatment, service, and care.
7. Effective Complaint and Appeal Processes
   If these rights are violated, individuals must have access to efficient mechanisms for lodging complaints and seeking redress.

Practical Implementation for Businesses

Here are some specific ways businesses can incorporate these rights into their practices:

Training Programs: Educate staff on the Charter’s principles, emphasizing empathy, respect, and patience. For instance, hospitality or retail workers can learn how to interact effectively with clients with memory issues, ensuring they feel respected and understood.

Designing Accessible Spaces: Physical environments should be dementia friendly. This includes clear signage, simplified navigation, and comfortable, quiet areas that reduce sensory overload, making your business more welcoming.

Policy Development: Involve clients and their families in policy discussions. For example, a financial services company could create focus groups with clients who have dementia to ensure their policies effectively support their needs.

Customer Service Excellence: Tailor service approaches to recognize the unique needs of individuals with dementia. For example, a healthcare provider might offer extended appointment times, allowing for more thorough consultations and a less rushed experience.

Why It Matters

We do not live in silos.  I have often remarked that we may interact and engage with commercial and business members in our community more frequently than those within our inner circles.  We can all contribute toward making our communities safe, welcoming, and engaging.

Businesses and services that implement these practices build a valued reputation of trust and care within our communities. As we honour this day, let’s commit to making all interactions age-friendly and inclusive, ensuring that every engagement, especially with those living with dementia, is guided by respect and dignity.

Rhonda Latreille, MBA, CPCA
Founder & CEO
Age-Friendly Business®

p.s.  Since 2003,  Age-Friendly Business® has trained thousands of professionals and businesses committed to learning how to elevate the quality of the client, customer, and community experience.  They are called Certified Professional Consultants on Aging (CPCAs) and Age-Friendly Businesses.  They have earned the right to ask for your business.

Celebrating International Friendship Day and Assistance Dog Week

Imagine you’re at a cozy café, sipping your favourite beverage, and laughing with a trusted friend. There is joy, comfort, shared stories, and warm memories.  Perhaps you are just sitting together quietly, basking in the contentment of peaceful contemplation.  All of these moments do more than just warm your heart.  They also play an important role in our well-being, especially as we age.

Studies have shown that social connections appreciably impact our mental and physical health.

Loneliness, on the other hand, can be as detrimental to health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. That’s a staggering revelation, isn’t it?

The Science Behind Social Bonds

Why do friendships hold such power over our well-being? It turns out that social interactions help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even improve immune function. When we engage with friends, our brains release oxytocin, the “feel-good” hormone, which not only makes us happier but also strengthens our immune system.

According to the Harvard Study of Adult Development, one of the longest-running studies of adult life, good relationships keep us healthier and happier – we feel better and live longer.

Impact of Loneliness

Loneliness kills.  It is that simple.

According to Steve Cole, Ph.D., director of the Social Genomics Core Laboratory at the University of California, Los Angeles:

“Loneliness acts as a fertilizer for other diseases.  The biology of loneliness can accelerate the buildup of plaque in arteries, help cancer cells grow and spread, and promote inflammation in the brain leading to Alzheimer’s disease.  Loneliness promotes several different types of wear and tear on the body.”

The impact of loneliness is so profound and so severe, that the UK established a dedicated Ministry For Loneliness.  We devoted an entire article to this initiative.  Review our Maturity Matters Newsletter, Edition 3, Volume 18, or go to the blog post at https://agefriendlybusiness.com/minister-for-loneliness

Pets: Our Furry Friends and Lifelong Companions

Now, let’s chat about our furry and feathered friends. Pets bring so much joy, connection, purpose, and companionship. Most of us have experienced first-hand the difference these special souls bring to our family and our lives.  Our pets do become beloved members of our family, and service support animals are trained to guide us through particularly tragic and trying times.  Our local Rotary Club raised funds for a service dog to be trained and assigned to a centre for children being interviewed or testifying about various forms of abuse they experienced.  The calming and quiet no-string-attached unconditional support provided comfort and helped to reduce some of the trauma inherent in the testimony.

During National Assistance Dog Week in August, we are reminded to celebrate the transformative service these animals offer.

Research from the Human-Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) shows that pet owners often have lower levels of stress, lower blood pressure, and improved heart health. Dogs, in particular, encourage physical activity, whether it’s a leisurely walk in the park or a playful game of fetch. These activities can help all of us, especially as we age to stay active and engaged, which is needed for maintaining health and mobility.

Bridging the Generational Gap

Friendship and connection aren’t limited to our peers. Intergenerational relationships can be incredibly enriching. Spending time with younger folks can bring fresh perspectives, new skills, energy, and a renewed sense of purpose. Whether it’s mentoring, volunteering, or simply sharing stories, these connections help bridge the generational gap and foster a sense of community.

Creating a Network of Support

Building and maintaining friendships as we age might seem challenging, but it’s entirely possible and absolutely worth it. Here are a few tips to stay connected:

• Join Clubs or Groups: Whether it’s a book club, a gardening group, or a fitness class, shared interests can bring people together.
• Volunteer: Giving back to the community not only feels good but also connects you with like-minded individuals.
• Stay Tech-Savvy: Don’t shy away from technology. Video calls, social media, and online forums can keep you connected, even from a distance.

Final Thoughts

As we celebrate International Friendship Day this August, let’s cherish the friendships that enrich our lives. And during National Assistance Dog Week, let’s not forget to give an extra treat to our loyal pets who bring so much joy and comfort. Friendships, whether with humans or animals, are the golden elements that bring the richness of well-being and happiness in our later years.

Rhonda Latreille, MBA, CPCA
Founder & CEO
Age-Friendly Business®