This 50‑minute podcast, with Dr Daphna Grossman, explores why dementia requires a palliative approach across all stages, grounded in evidence from Canadian and international research. The conversation begins by dispelling myths, drawing on Hill et al. (2018) and Mitchell et al. (2009) to show dementia’s terminal trajectory and the benefits of early supportive care. It then examines evolving needs across the cognitive spectrum and highlights the essential role of PSWs and frontline staff. Access inequities are explored through Horrill et al. (2026) and Stajduhar et al. (2020), emphasizing barriers faced by rural, remote, newcomer, and Indigenous communities.
The discussion connects to World Alzheimer’s Day and national priorities identified by the Alzheimer Society of Canada and the WHO Global Dementia Action Plan. The episode closes with calls to action inspired by Froggatt et al. (2020) and CHPCA norms, focusing on equity, compassion, and earlier integration of palliative care.
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand why dementia is a palliative diagnosis and how early integration improves quality of life.
- Recognize structural, cultural, and geographic barriers affecting equitable access to dementia‑related palliative care.
- Apply evidence‑informed strategies to support comfort, communication, and decision‑making across the dementia trajectory.
