Allow advance MAID directives for dementia

AI summary

The petitioners, including someone whose spouse was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, state the spouse was initially approved for Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) but later lost capacity and could not confirm the request. They say current MAID rules require mental capacity at the time of the procedure and ask the House of Commons to allow advance MAID requests (advance directives) for people with dementia, with clear safeguards to honour prior wishes and prevent prolonged suffering. No government response is included with the petition.

AI summaries describe petitioners’ requests and claims. Consult the official record for the full text.

Official petition

Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament assembled Nine years ago, my husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Wanting to preserve his dignity and autonomy, he applied for and was initially approved for Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID). But when his condition progressed to the point where he would have chosen to proceed, he could not longer make express his wish; A year ago he entered long-term-care - something he has clearly hoped to avoid. He no longer knows my name, though he still recognizes me. Most days he does not know our children, grandchildren, siblings or friends. He wanders the halls or sits quietly and we lose a bit more of him each day. This is a reality for many families living with dementia, whose voices go unheard under current legislation; Canada's MAID law requires individuals to be mentally competent at the time of the procedure, overlooking the unique circumstances of those with dementia; Advance requests - made while a person is still capable - should be recognized to honour their wishes and prevent prolonged suffering; This is not just personal, it is a national issue affecting countless families forced to watch loved ones endure a life they never wanted; With clear safeguards, advance MAID requests can offer dignity, compassion and choice - ensuring Canadians with dementia have a voice in their end-of-life care; and It is time for our laws to reflect the compassion our healthcare system strives to protect. We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to allow advance directives for MAID for Canadians diagnosed with dementia.

Government response

No government response is available yet.