Written Answers. - Alzheimer's Disease.
Enda Kenny
Question:
164
Mr. E. Kenny
asked the
Minister for Health
the estimated number of patients suffering from Alzheimer's Disease in each health board area; the proposals, if any, he has to provide assistance for respite homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
There are no precise figures available for the number of persons suffering from dementia in each health board area. Based on the World Health Organisation ratio of 5 to 8 per cent of persons suffering from dementia among those aged 65 years and over the estimated number of people suffering from dementia in each health board area is as follows:
|
Health Board
|
Estimated Number of Persons with Dementia
|
|
EHB
|
5,872-9,395
|
|
MHB
|
1,222-1,956
|
|
MWHB
|
1,833-2,934
|
|
NEHB
|
1,706-2,730
|
|
NWHB
|
1,511-2,418
|
|
SEHB
|
2,239-3,583
|
|
SHB
|
3,269-5,230
|
|
WHB
|
2,485-3,977
|
|
Total
|
20,137-32,223
|
The reportThe Years Ahead — A Policy for the Elderly emphasised the need to develop a range of services for people with dementia and their families, including purpose built accommodation. The report was adopted as official Government policy towards the elderly in October 1988. Health boards have prepared plans to implement the recommendations of the report.
Between 1990 and 1992 an additional £9 million was made available to the health services to implement the key recommendations of the report, including the strengthening of home and community support for people with dementia and their families. The investment by boards in additional community nursing, daycare and respite services has increased the support available to sufferers of Alzheimer's Disease and their carers. Some health boards are planning major service developments for the mentally infirm, in line with the commitments given in theProgramme for Economic and Social Progress to develop services for the elderly. The care of those suffering from Alzheimer's Disease and dementia is emerging as a priority for many boards, a development which I fully support.
The Health (Nursing Homes) Act, 1990, which came into operation on 1 September last also enhances the facilities available to those caring for dependent relatives with Alzheimer's Disease and dementia. Under the Act, health boards may pay a subvention towards the cost of care in a nursing home of a person who needs that care and who does not have the resources to pay the cost. Subvention is available for respite care in nursing homes.
I am sure that the Deputy is aware that my colleague, Dr. Michael Woods, the Minister for Social Welfare, has made £1 million available to establish a respite care fund to assist voluntary and community groups who provide respite care facilities and services. This respite care fund will also be of benefit to people with dementia and their carers.
I am satisfied that good progress has been made towards translating policy into a practical network of services for Alzheimer patients and their carers and that this progress will be maintained.
