Alzheimer Scotland welcomes new health target for dementia

Alzheimer Scotland welcomes today’s announcement by the Scottish Government that an NHS Scotland target will be set for the early diagnosis of dementia and we look forward to working with the Government on the detail of the target.

Early diagnosis is the gateway to support and treatment. It is essential so that people can be involved in discussions about their present and later care, and to enable them and their families to plan for the future.

Kate Fearnley, Health and Community Director of Alzheimer Scotland said “We know that dementia is often not diagnosed until many months or even years into the illness and sometimes never diagnosed at all. This target is very welcome because it will mean more people with dementia will be identified and get appropriate support and care whether they live in their own home or a care home”

A diagnosis of dementia has great implications for both the person with dementia and their family. It is therefore crucial that a diagnosis of dementia is followed by appropriate post diagnostic support. People need help to adjust to the diagnosis. It important that information, emotional support, rehabilitation services, counselling as well as diagnostic and treatment services are in place.

Dementia is a key health issue facing Scotland over the coming decades as our population ages. Alzheimer Scotland considers a target for early diagnosis as an important driver in prioritisation of dementia to meet the projected increase.

Please give our Freephone 24hr Dementia Helpline telephone number: 0808 808 3000 and our web page address: www.alzscot.org at the end of articles.

Contact details:
Jim Jackson, Chief Executive, 0131 243 1453 (mob 07747 025041) jjackson@alzscot.org
Rachel Guy, Fundraising & PR Director, 0131 243 1453 rguy@alzscot.org
Kirsty Jardine, PR & Marketing Manager, 0131 243 1453 kjardine@alzscot.org

Alzheimer Scotland
Dementia affects between 58,000 and 65,000 people in Scotland in 2007. Alzheimer’s disease is the main form of dementia. The second most common is vascular dementia. As yet there is no cure.

By 2031 there will be 75% more people with dementia in Scotland.

Alzheimer Scotland is Scotland’s foremost voluntary organisation working for people with dementia and their carers. It:

• speaks out for the rights and concerns of people with dementia and their carers;
• operates services on over 60 sites throughout Scotland providing practical services such as day, evening and weekend centres, home care and befriending and carers' support services;
• provides the 24 hour national freephone Dementia Helpline (0808 808 3000);
• has a research programme.