Adapting to ongoing needs in a community often means providing the resources, services and programs to make that happen.
The Town of Innisfail is now saying it will get behind a dementia-friendly initiative for the community. It is a designation that will help meet the needs of many residents and visitors, says Innisfail resident Jean Barclay.
“The concept behind a dementia-friendly community is that you're creating awareness and understanding of dementia in the community but you're also making that community accessible,” said Barclay, co-ordinator for the Innisfail Dementia Support Group. “Today we have ramps that go into stores to make them accessible (for people with disabilities) or we have a sidewalk that is accessible for wheelchairs. People with dementia should have the same rights and access to resources, programs and volunteer opportunities.”
Barclay made a presentation earlier this spring to town council about the dementia-friendly concept. After some discussion, the Town of Innisfail decided to support the notion and throw its support behind the designation.
“I'm thrilled that the town has offered their support,” said Barclay.
Innisfail mayor Brian Spiller said the town is pleased to get behind the initiative.
“We agreed that we would lend our FCSS staff for any help in making Innisfail a more dementia-friendly community,” said Spiller, noting administration has not yet brought forward any ideas and council has not yet passed any motion for the designation. “Jean Barclay was looking for our verbal support and our blessing.
“I admire Jean for the work that she's doing for this cause,” added the mayor. “You're grateful for any help that is available for your loved ones.”
Ensuring access for people living with dementia may include a couple of different components, noted Barclay.
“One is education and awareness in the community and secondly, it's really about taking businesses and making them more dementia-friendly,” explained Barclay, noting for example the placement of items on shelves in a grocery story or adjusting services to meet customers needs. “If there is a business that has a dementia-friendly sticker in their window, people going in are going to know that (perhaps) the business has had some awareness training in dementia and they can help and support (customers).”
The next step includes organizing a small committee comprised of interested residents, support group members and those living with dementia, noted Barclay.
“I'm also reaching out to people who have a diagnosis with dementia that want to be a part of this. We need to hear from them and what they need to enhance their well being,” she said, adding she is optimistic local residents will welcome the dementia-friendly designation.
“I think when we look at the demographics of the community and when there's an awareness of what people with dementia are living with, I think people will embrace it,” said Barclay. “Embracing diversity is really what it's about.”
Jean Barclay
"Today we have ramps that go into stores to make them accessible (for people with disabilities) or we have a sidewalk that is accessible for wheelchairs. People with dementia should have the same rights and access to resources, programs and volunteer opportunities."
