The Alzheimer Society of Canada says a national strategy is needed to help police deal with domestic disputes involving people with dementia.

The group says police must learn to be more sensitive, especially since these cases are likely to increase dramatically as the Canadian population ages.

The Society’s C-E-O Naguib Gouda says it’s critical for Canada to come up with a national dementia plan — adding that we’re lagging behind other countries in this area.

Group spokeswoman Mary Schulz says a lot of people may hesitate calling the police if they feel their loved ones aren’t going to get the help they need.

Deb Mulligan called 9-1-1 after her husband, who has dementia, threatened her life. The Ontario woman says it was a difficult decision — one she doesn’t regret — but adds she still felt terrible seeing police treat her husband like a criminal.