Thank you. I apologize, but sometimes we have to use French to give the interpreters an opportunity to showcase their skills.
First of all, thank you very much for your presentations.
Mr. Diamond, I found your presentation extremely interesting. I think it's one of the best that has ever been made to this committee.
I sympathize with your plights, Mr. Mann and Mr. Lester. My sister is 57 years old and she was diagnosed at 50 years of age. We knew that she was having some problems before then, but the diagnosis was not confirmed until she was 50 years old. We do not know how much time she has left. The fact of the matter is that it is extremely difficult for those who receive this diagnosis to get some support. Clearly, this is a problem, just as it is a problem understanding what a person with Alzheimer's is going through.
You talked about many things, Mr. Lester. Some are saying that the problem lies with the provincial government, that the provinces are responsible, but I believe that everyone, provincial and federal members of Parliament alike, have a role to play in ensuring that these people get the support they need and that they are treated well when they are institutionalized.
Most people feel frustrated. You are correct when you say that many people perhaps feel ashamed to be suffering from Alzheimer's. They try to hide it from everyone around them.
It's even harder for the caregivers. You pinpointed the problem. While the federal government claims to offer support to those who care for family members or a friend, the only type of support available to them is employment insurance compassionate care benefits. Unless I'm mistaken, caregivers are entitled to receive such benefits only for six weeks. Six weeks isn't much when you're dealing with an illness like this.
A tax credit is also available, but it isn't enough, in my opinion. Tax credits are not really useful because they involve small amounts. Family members who are unable to care for a brother, sister or parent at home face a major problem.
What steps should be taken to help caregivers of Alzheimer sufferers? Anyone?