Care services not prepared for increase of people with dementia

It examines all care sectors for the first time and explores why some care services are failing to meet CQC standards.

The report notes a growing demand for nursing care within social care settings. This is due to the increasing number of people with complex or multiple illnesses, and the rising numbers of older people with dementia.

The report also suggests that pressures on care services are increasing the risks of poor or unsafe care for people who are less able to speak up for themselves and those, who are more vulnerable including people with dementia. Across both health and social care, CQC inspectors found organisations who are failing to manage the impact of these challenges effectively, and delivering care that is task-based, not person-centred.

Alzheimer’s Society comment:

'800,000 people are living with dementia in the UK. By 2021 this will rise to over one million. With many of these people requiring care at some stage of their life, it is extremely disappointing that many care services are so far failing to meet their needs. We have known for a long time that the number of people with dementia is increasing so there is no excuse for not taking action.

'Good services show us that quality care for people with dementia is possible. People with the condition deserve nothing less than the best care. Let this report be a wake up call to those who aren't meeting the requirements.'

Andrew Chidgey
Director of External Affairs
Alzheimer's Society

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