3rd February, 2009
Dr Andrew McCulloch, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation, today welcomed the National Dementia Strategy but said that it lacked ambition and breadth in the face of rising dementia rates:
“This long awaited strategy will go some way in benefiting the growing number of people affected by dementia and their families. However, the speed of implementation of the five year strategy will vary, depending upon how much of a priority local authorities make it, which could lead to a postcode lottery scenario.
“The designated £150 million over two years will be stretched. The government’s plans appear to focus on improving services but resources also need to be allocated to address the wider effects and costs of dementia, estimated to be £17 billion a year."
-- Dementia training for all frontline workers needed --
On the proposed training for GPs and the establishment of a senior clinician in every hospital and care home, McCulloch added:
“Training needs to extend to every frontline worker who comes into regular contact with a person directly affected by dementia. A senior clinician will not be able to be there all of the time. It is also important that professionals are trained to detect and manage depression. Up to 50 per cent of people with dementia experience depression. Many of the symptoms such as withdrawal and apathy are seen in both illnesses.
-- Earlier diagnosis key to mental capacity rights --
“The Dementia Strategy is right to prioritise giving a diagnosis early in the course of the illness. Not only does it enable an individual to adjust but it gives them the opportunity to make their own choices while they have capacity. It is important that a person has the right to make the decision to appoint someone they trust to look after their finances and decisions relating to health, social care and housing.”
-- Innovation in care homes --
The Mental Health Foundation is currently running ‘Home Improvements’ – a programme that aims to improve the quality of life of people with dementia in care homes.
For more information visit www.mentalhealth.org.uk
ENDS
For more information please contact the Mental Health Foundation press office on 020 7803 1130/1128 or fgorman@mhf.org.uk
The Mental Health Foundation (www.mentalhealth.org.uk) uses research and practical projects to help people survive, recover from and prevent mental health problems. We work to influence policy, including government at the highest levels. And we use our knowledge to raise awareness and to help tackle the stigma attached to mental illness. We reach millions of people every year through our media work, information booklets and online services.
Registered Charity No: (England & Wales) 801130: (Scotland) SC 039714.
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