A proposal that would allow some people with dementia to use Handi-Transit is going before a city council committee on Monday.
The issue is on the agenda for Monday's meeting of the public works committee – and it has been years coming for people with Alzheimer's disease.
Since 2004, the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba has been advocating for people with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia to be allowed to use Handi-Transit. In 2005, the society filed a complaint with the Human Rights Commission, arguing that the city was discriminating against people with cognitive disabilities by not allowing them the services available to the physically disabled.
In 2009, the Human Rights Commission ruled with the Alzheimer Society and recommended that the matter proceed to mediation.
Under the proposed recommendations, people with dementia would be assessed concerning their ability to use public transit and Handi-Transit. The assessments would require some extra staff, according to the report.
C.E.O. of the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba Sylvia Rothney said the society hopeful that the proposal will be adopted by the city.
"It's really good to see this come to a positive conclusion for all," she said.
The society is already working with city officials to help set criteria for evaluating the transit needs of people with Alzheimer's disease, Rothney said.
