Mary Manning, Health Service Executive, outlines the work that has been undertaken by the National Dementia Office to ensure the implementation of the National Dementia Strategy.
The Atlantic investment supported the National Dementia Strategy and in particular the implementation and oversight that is required to ensure that it is rolled out. Implementation covers five main areas – some of which are interwoven with other programmes outlined on this hub:
- Better Awareness and Understanding – Developing a national support campaign for people with dementia and their family carers.
- Timely Diagnosis and Intervention – Putting in place structures to develop training, education and care pathways for people, from when they might come forward with “worrying symptoms” through to diagnosis.
- Integrated Services and Supports – Taking a partnership approach to the planning, development, delivery, evaluation and monitoring of services for people with dementia. Initially, 500 home care packages are to be provided for people with dementia.
- Training and Education – Developing and providing appropriate training and competencies to care staff, as well as family and other informal carers.
- Research and Information Systems – Ensuring that Single Assessment Tool (SAT) data is factored into research to inform all levels of dementia care in Ireland.
On the Ground
Dementia has become, increasingly, a public health priority for the Irish Department of Health. The implementation of the National Dementia Strategy is shaping the development of services and approaches.
The Health Service Executive launched a major public awareness campaign called Understand Together in early 2016.
