Research shows the number of people with dementia will more than double to about 104,000 by 2036
THE GOVERNMENT is “completely unprepared” for dealing with a dramatic increase in the number of people with dementia, health campaigners have warned.
Latest research indicates that the number of people with dementia in Ireland will more than double from 44,000 to about 104,000 by 2036.
Marking World Alzheimer’s Day, the Alzheimer Society of Ireland is warning today that immediate action is needed to tackle the “hidden health crisis of dementia”.
A new report published by Alzheimer Disease International estimates that the economic and social costs of dementia is in the region of 1 per cent of global GDP.
While it is one of the costliest illnesses, the report says research and investment is at a far lower level than for other major illnesses.
Maurice O’Connell, the Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s chief executive, said the report was an opportunity for the Government to take on board the disease burden of dementia.
“We have seen a huge influx of concerned calls to our national helpline in the last quarter, demonstrating the lack of information and support available to people living with dementia in Ireland, a message also highlighted by recent media coverage,” he said.
“It is clear carers in Ireland are at breaking point. The Government must listen to people living with dementia and implement a national dementia strategy as in place in other European countries.”
The society says early diagnosis is a first crucial step in enabling those diagnosed to plan and manage the illness.
However, a recent survey by the society found that it is taking up to two years for carers to obtain a diagnosis for a family member presenting with symptoms.
In contrast, the society says it takes about nine months on average for a diagnosis in Germany and 13 months in Italy.
The obstacles surrounding early diagnosis need to be tackled through public awareness campaigns, better information and GP education programmes, according to the society.
In addition, it is calling for more “joined-up thinking” between the many fragmented services and supports available in the State.
“With 20 per cent of carers finding their role ‘soul destroying’, according to research, the scale of the crisis of dementia in Ireland cries out for immediate action,” the society said in a statement.
Calls to the society’s national helpline increased 40 per cent last month compared with the same period last year.
In response to a demand for more public information, the society is organising events including two Alzheimer awareness evenings today in Dublin (the Davenport Hotel from 7pm) and Cork (the Imperial Hotel from 7pm).
Clinicians, carers, volunteers and legal experts will be available to answer queries from members of the public. Other events are listed on the society’s website (Alzheimer.ie).
