Alzheimer's treatment - Results of surveys are depressing

THE results of two surveys on the quality of treatment for Alzheimer patients make for depressing reading, not least of which is that the majority of doctors questioned are concerned about current practices in place.

The surveys of doctors and another among society generally were commissioned by the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, also revealed that 70% of people know little or nothing about it.

Two thirds of doctors surveyed expressed concern about the treatment available for the illness and called for more resources, including more acute hospital beds, to be made available. Among the suggestions made was that more resources be provided to treat patients at home, especially in the early stages.