Alzheimer's Society comment on the launch of the first National Dementia Strategy (NDS) in England
Published 19 June 2008
Today is a landmark day for people with dementia and their carers, as the government recognises dementia as a national priority.
Dementia is a devastating condition caused by diseases of the brain, yet only a third of people ever receive a diagnosis and families are often left to cope alone until they reach crisis point.
It's time to drag dementia care out of the dark ages and change the way we treat some of our most vulnerable older people.
The Department's actions and proposals are a great start. Its review of antipsychotic drugs to stop their dangerous over prescription to people with dementia is urgently needed. The research summit is also a crucial opportunity to address the fact that dementia research is drastically underfunded in the UK.
This strategy will require money and leadership to really transform people's lives. Alzheimer's Society looks forward to leading the fight against dementia by working with the government, NHS and local authorities to make this ambitious plan a reality.
Neil Hunt
Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society
About the National Dementia Strategy:
The Department of Health has launched a consultation on a Draft National Dementia Strategy for England.
The strategy lists a set of 15 recommendations organised under three key themes of:
a) Improving public and professional awareness,
b) Early diagnosis and intervention, and,
c) Improving quality of care.
To see a full copy of the dementia strategy consultation proposals and consultation events please go to www.dh.gov.uk/dementia
The role of Alzheimer's Society in the National Dementia Strategy
Alzheimer's Society is the leading expert on dementia and has been asked to work on the National Dementia Strategy in England as a recognised expert in the field.
Alzheimer's Society has worked with the Department of Health to ensure that there is representation of people with dementia and carers on all groups. This included the setting up of a series of listening and engagement events with the Care Services Improvement Partnership (CSIP).
Neil Hunt, chief executive of the Alzheimer's Society, chaired the External Reference Group (ERG) for the Strategy and sat on the Programme Board steering the Strategy. The ERG provided external advice and guidance on the content of the Strategy and Implementation Plan and involved key stakeholders.
About the Alzheimer's Society
Alzheimer's Society is the leading care and research charity for people with all forms of dementia and their carers. It provides information and education, support for carers, and quality day and home care. It funds medical and scientific research and campaigns for improved health and social services and greater public understanding of dementia.
The Alzheimer's Society provides a national help line on 0845 3000 336 and website alzheimers.org.uk. Please include this information in any publication that uses these comments.
For more information please contact Press Office on 0207 423 3595 or email press@alzheimers.org.uk
