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National Dementia Strategy

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 July 2019

Tuesday, 23 July 2019

Questions (1220)

Carol Nolan

Question:

1220. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Health if €18 million in funding will be allocated to a society (details supplied) in budget 2020 towards supports and community care for patients with dementia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32147/19]

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Written answers

The aim of the National Dementia Strategy, which was published in December 2014 and is being implemented by the National Dementia Office, is to improve care, services and supports for people with dementia.

The HSE currently provides approximately €9 million per annum for intensive home care packages, including €7.9 million for dementia-specific packages. Since the packages were introduced at the end of 2014, 443 dementia-specific intensive homecare packages have been delivered, with 201 active at the end of March 2019.

A total of €426 million has been allocated for home support services this year, which will also benefit people with dementia.  It is expected that over 17.9 million home support hours will be delivered to over 53,000 people this year.

The HSE provides in the region of €12 million in annual funding to a range of organisations who deliver dementia-specific respite, home care, day care, cognitive stimulation therapy, social clubs and supports for family carers around the country.

In addition, the HSE provides €400,000 per annum in support for the Dementia Adviser Service, which spans 12 counties and is operated by the Alzheimer Society of Ireland. This funding supports 7 of the 9 dementia adviser posts delivering the service.

The level of funding available for the Department of Health in 2020 and the quantum of services to be provided by the HSE, including supports and community care for people with dementia, will be considered as part of the national Estimates and budgetary process and National Service Planning.

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