Alzheimer's Society demands Govt action

The Alzheimer's Society is demanding action from the Government on a national framework for the management of dementia in Ireland.

It follows the release of findings of two national GP surveys conducted in the run up to World Alzheimer's Day.

The surveys, a consumer survey and a detailed questionnaire on GPs' opinions on the treatment of dementia.

80% of doctors believe a fifth of families are failing to recognise the early signs of dementia in time for adequate treatment.

This is supported by a consumer survey, which shows that more than 70% of people know little or nothing about dementia or Alzheimer's.

60% of GPs have expressed serious concern over the treatment practices and management service provided to those suffering from dementia.

They believe these services are failing to recognise the needs of those affected and their families.

73% of GPs identified the need for additional respite care as urgent. And acute bed shortage for such patients was also noted.

More than 60% of consumers favour the provision of home care support in tandem with short term respite care.

Now the Alzheimer's Society and GPs are calling on the Government to address these issues, in the form of a national framework for best practice in the management of Alzheimer's and dementia.