We deserve to plan for a peaceful death
Tell Parliament: Allow compassionate access to advance requests now
The problem
“My dad is starving to death.”
Lauren’s father was tragically diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s over 10 years ago. Today, his body has reached the point where he doesn’t remember how to eat. This could be the reality for more than one million Canadians who will be diagnosed with dementia by 2030 — unless we legalize advance requests now.
The solution
Right now, people across Canada diagnosed with neurocognitive disorders like dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s are forced to make a cruel choice:
Access MAID earlier than they want to in order to ensure they have capacity to consent — giving up time with their loved ones.
OR
Risk losing capacity and be forced to live in a situation they would find intolerable.
It doesn’t have to be this way. Advance requests would allow a person to submit a written request for MAID that can be honoured later, after they lose capacity. More time with loved ones. Less suffering.
Every person — be it your mother, father, grandparent, neighbour, or you — deserves to live and die with dignity and compassion.
What we know
Advance requests are not a new, under-researched concept. They prevent needless suffering and ensure that people at risk of losing capacity are not forced to make an impossible choice.
| 82% of Canadians support advance requests for MAID for a person diagnosed with a grievous and irremediable medical condition. | Quebec has already legalized advance requests. | Parliament’s Special Joint Committee on MAID has twice recommended allowing advance requests after diagnosis. |
The research, evidence, and tools are in front of us. The only thing left to do is convince Parliament to act.
FAQ
An advance request involves a competent person making a written request for MAID that could be honoured later, after they lose the capacity to make medical decisions for themselves. This would include people who have been diagnosed with neurocognitive disorders or other conditions that may affect cognitive abilities, such as dementia, Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, or Parkinson’s. It does not include conditions that are primarily within the domain of psychiatry, such as depression and personality disorders.
As it stands, advance requests for MAID in Canada are illegal, with the exception of those living in the province of Quebec. Quebec has become the first jurisdiction in Canada to allow advance requests, effective October 30, 2024.
Legislation in support of advance requests:
- Bill C-390 was a private member’s bill tabled by former Bloc Quebecois MP Sylvie Bérubé in 2024. Progress on this bill stopped when the 2025 federal election was called.
- Bill S-231 is a Senate bill introduced by Senator Pamela Wallin. It is currently in its second reading, but no progress has been made since October 2025.
In Quebec, individuals who are diagnosed with an incurable condition (such as Alzheimer’s) have the right to submit an advance request for MAID. A number of criteria must be met for the request to be granted, and the individual can withdraw or modify their request at any time. Click here to learn more about Quebec’s advance request criteria and processes.
Legalizing advance requests could save a person from having to endure years — perhaps even decades — of unwanted suffering. Your signature puts pressure on decision-makers in government to respect end-of-life rights, follow in Quebec’s footsteps, and finally allow advance requests.
Send a letter to Parliament. Demand access to advance requests. Join 100,000+ people across Canada calling for change.
The evidence in support of advance requests is clear. Now, Parliament needs to see the same clarity from you—Canada’s voters—so decision-makers can no longer ignore this overwhelming call for action. Here’s why your voice is needed in this movement:
- Parliament responds to pressure: Lawmakers are most responsive when they know constituents are watching. A flood of letters signals that people in Canada are paying attention to advance requests and demand action—not empty consultations or endless study.
- Every signature builds momentum: 82% of Canadians support advance requests. Each new letter reminds Parliament that this is not a fringe issue, but a widespread, urgent public demand.
- Your voice = real change: Letters, emails, and calls to MPs compel politicians to raise questions in Parliament, propose legislation, and bring your stories and concerns to national attention.
Today, tell your MP that advance requests for MAID are supported by 82% of people across Canada — including yourself — and must be a parliamentary priority.