Investment needed in dementia support

Speaking ahead of the launch of the All-Party Oireachtas group on Dementia’s Budget submission tomorrow, Labour Senator Kevin Humphreys has said urgent action is needed to address the shortage of support services for people with dementia in Ireland.

Senator Humphreys said:

“Dementia advisors are hugely important for dementia sufferers and their families, and provide a vital signposting service to help provide information and advice.

“But with only nine advisors covering just 11 counties, it’s a postcode lottery at the moment as to whether you’ll be in a position to benefit.

“This puts an unacceptable burden on the dementia sufferers who live in the remaining 15 counties and miss out on being connected to the appropriate supports and services.

“That’s why in the upcoming Budget, we’re calling on the Government to invest €7.4m into urgently needed community supports.

“Extra funding is also needed for home care support, which can be a preferred and cost-effective alternative to long-term residential care for some people with dementia.

“So far, there’s only been limited funding provided for under the National Dementia Strategy for Intensive Home Care Packages, and we’re calling for an additional €6m in funding to expand the number of packages.

“The Government needs to prioritise people with dementia in Budget 2020 to ensure every citizen is treated fairly and given the right supports and services.”