Brome Lake launches pilot to become dementia-friendly town
The town of Brome Lake in Quebec is piloting a program that trains merchants, municipal staff and emergency responders to better support residents with dementia.
Brome Lake, located about 100 kilometres east of Montreal, is undertaking a federally funded pilot to become a recognized dementia-friendly community. The initiative, overseen by France Proteau and the Alzheimer Society of Brome-Missisquoi and Haute-Yamaska, will educate merchants, municipal employees and emergency responders on how to adapt services for people with neurocognitive disorders. Coordinators emphasize preserving the individuality of those with Alzheimer’s while reducing social isolation.
Practical steps include clearer signage, simplified menus and staff training to identify and respond to disorientation. Local entrepreneurs like Jennifer Brodeur have joined the effort, citing personal dignity concerns. The project hopes to serve as a model for other Quebec municipalities as dementia rates rise nationally.
Why it matters
It shows how small towns can adapt services to support an aging population with dementia.
In this story
