With the upcoming fall election we are asking concerned individuals to become dementia care champions and speak out to your friends and neighbours, to local candidates and to elected officials about the issues that affect people with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

Please provide your email to alzmb@alzheimer.mb.ca so we can inform you of any Election Issue Updates.

Here are three significant election issues and the questions you can ask your local candidates and party leaders:

Issue 1: Nine years ago the Manitoba Government adopted a "Strategy for Alzheimer Disease and Related Dementias in Manitoba". The Strategy focused on Nine Strategic Issues regarding care for a person with dementia. A revitalized and renewed Strategy is needed to address the current context and funding is needed to implement the Strategic Issues.

Question: If your party forms the next government would you commit to updating the Alzheimer Strategy and providing the necessary funds for its complete implementation?

Issue 2: People with dementia, their family members and friends cannot live the dementia journey alone. They need support from informed health professionals and community agencies. With added support they will be able to plan for future care needs, have enhanced caregiving skills and maintain a higher quality of life while living with dementia.

Question: If your party forms the next government would you commit to funding First Link®, a response strategy that links people with dementia and their caregivers to information, support and education?

Issue 3: Manitobans need to know personal strategies that will assist them to protect their brain health. They must also be able to recognize the warning signs of dementia and know how to seek a diagnosis.

Question: If your party forms the next government will you commit to making dementia a public health priority by creating public awareness of brain health and the importance of early diagnosis?

With each voice heard, the message grows stronger. By working together, we can continue to become a powerful engine for change, creating a better future for people affected by dementia.

The Society is asking the Manitoba provincial election candidates to:

1. Commit to updating the ALZHEIMER STRATEGY and funding its complete implementation.

2. Commit to funding FIRST LINK®, a strategy that links people with dementia and their caregivers to information, support and education.

3. Commit to making dementia a PUBLIC HEALTH PRIORITY.

We will be writing letters to all party leaders and candidates asking them to respond to the three significant issues that affect the health and well-being of all Manitobans. The letter and responses will be posted as they are received.