Advisory Committees of Lived Experience Helping to Shape the Future
Our Advisory Committees of Lived Experience are made up of volunteers that dedicate their time to ensuring the voices of people affected by dementia are heard and included in all that we do.
The Advisory Committees of Lived Experience have made significant contributions to promoting education and awareness around dementia since they first met last spring. These committees demonstrate how lived experiences can inform policy and bring about tangible, positive change in the lives of those living with and affected by dementia.
Made up of diverse individuals, the advisory committees represent a wide range of perspectives from across Nova Scotia, including people from rural, Black and LGBTQ+ communities, and those living with various types of dementia.
There are two committees, one for care partners and one for people living with dementia. The committees meet quarterly to share their insights on key advocacy priorities, learn from guest speakers, and contribute to ongoing projects that are shaping dementia initiatives in our province.
“The work of these committees has been invaluable” says Rosanne Burke, Manager of Advocacy. “It’s critical that we partner with and amplify the voices of people most affected by the issues.”
The first important task of the committees was to select the recipients of the Dementia Friendly Community Awards, which recognized individuals and organizations committed to improving the lives of people living with dementia. They have also played a key role in educational initiatives to foster dementia friendly communities, promoting awareness of dementia and breaking down the stigma surrounding the condition.
Additionally, committee members have contributed to the development of educational resources, including editing our newsletter and content like you're reading! Their input ensures that these resources are not only informative but truly reflective of the needs and experiences of those directly impacted by dementia.
The committees continue to develop and refine materials that provide support to those affected by dementia, such as videos about our programs, which offers valuable assistance to those navigating dementia care.
Members have contributed to national discussions on Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) and palliative care. Their involvement in these crucial conversations ensures that the voices of those living with dementia are heard in policy discussions across government levels.
Through their collective efforts, the advisory committees continue to lead the way in advocating for a more dementia friendly future, one where the voices of lived experience are not only heard, but are central to shaping the policies and practices that affect the lives of people living with dementia. These committees are shifting the narrative of what it means to live with dementia. They are fostering a more inclusive, supportive, and understanding society, while also driving significant policy changes that benefit those living with dementia and their families.
Originally published in In the Loop.