With the number of people with dementia having risen to 2,717 in the Western Health and Social Trust area, the Trust’s Older People’s Mental Health Services Team has launched a guide for carers..
The number of people in Northern Ireland with dementia is steadily increasing.
In recent years it has been estimated that over 18,000 people are living with the condition and up to 1,000 of these people are under 65 years old.
It is predicted that this could rise to 23,000 by 2017.
In 2012 there were 2,717 people in the Western Trust area estimated to have dementia, 1830 of these had a diagnosis.
Dementia can be devastating not only for the individual who experiences it, but also for their family, friends, and their carers.
Family members and carers of those with dementia can play a crucial role in the practical and emotional support and care of those with dementia.
However, the impact of the diagnosis can be made worse if carers are not given appropriate information, training and advice at an early stage and throughout the illness.
Mr Alan Corry Finn, Director of Primary Care and Older People’s Services, Western Trust revealed a carers’ survey carried out in the Western Trust area found that carers’ most pressing need was for education and information given at the “right time and at the right pace.”
He added: “The guide also provides information on local support organisations who can help carers in their caring role.
“The Western Trust is delighted with the help of the PHA to be able to provide this valuable information to carers.”
The booklet, launched to mark Dementia Awareness Week and funded by the Public Health Agency, provides information and tips on how to provide care to a relative or a friend with dementia.
Brendan Bonner, Head of Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement (West) at the Public Health Agency said: “It improves carers’ understanding of dementia and how to understand different types of behaviour at different stages of the illness.”
Copies of the booklet will be distributed to carers of those relatives who receive a diagnosis of dementia at the Western Trust’s memory service.
A post diagnosis education programme on dementia for carers is currently being developed and will be offered to all dementia carers early next year.
The booklet will be one of many resources which will accompany the programme.
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