Police services in Nova Scotia’s South Shore are making adjustments in their approach to handling domestic violence cases involving individuals with dementia, a trend that is reportedly increasing. The RCMP and the Bridgewater Police Service recently introduced the Silver Guardian Program to address this issue.
Cpl. Dominic Laflamme of Lunenburg County RCMP highlighted the necessity for tools to manage these calls due to the aging population, indicating that the problem is persistent. The program aims to provide an alternative to the justice system for those facing charges related to domestic violence while suffering from conditions like Alzheimer’s.
Individuals in relationships with dementia patients who fear potential abuse can proactively seek assistance from the police to access support services before any harmful incidents occur. According to Laflamme, despite the obligation to press charges in assault cases involving dementia sufferers, they will collaborate with Crown prosecutors to seek resolutions outside of court.
The initiative stemmed from a tragic event in Mahone Bay last year, prompting the RCMP to reassess its protocols. Recognizing the aging demographic in their jurisdiction, the Bridgewater Police Service established the Lunenburg County Seniors Safety Program at their headquarters. Staff at the program secured federal funding for the Silver Guardian Project, managed by the RCMP’s vulnerable person unit, after observing a rise in domestic violence incidents.
Deputy Police Chief Danny MacPhee of Bridgewater emphasized the need to handle outbursts and potentially hazardous situations involving dementia patients appropriately. He stressed the importance of considering the circumstances holistically when responding to such calls, advocating for a compassionate approach over punitive measures.
In light of the increasing incidents involving dementia patients, law enforcement is adapting to meet the evolving needs of the community, prioritizing care and support for vulnerable individuals over strict legal actions.
