Alzheimer’s Society comment on Health Select Committee Report
Published 8 February 2012
A new report published by the Health Select Committee is calling for greater integration of the existing fragmented health and social care services.
The report, which follows the Committee's enquiry into Social Care, also identifies the need to face the issue of the funding gap between the number of people who need care and the amount of money currently in the system. The Committee makes recommendations for integration through commissioning.
Alzheimer's Society comment:
'This report reiterates the need for a long-overdue overhaul of the crumbling system of care. People with dementia are some of the hardest hit by existing failures. They often require health and social care - from help with everyday tasks such as washing, eating and dressing, to medication. Integrating the composite parts of the existing system is vital.'
'We are delighted to see the Health Select Committee joining the call for a fairer deal for all people who need care. The best proposal of how to end the unacceptable financial burden on vulnerable people is from the Dilnot Commission; but we desperately need more money too. If we don't act now, the spiralling number of people being forced into hospital because of insufficient care threatens to bankrupt the NHS.'
Jeremy Hughes
Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society
- Ends -
Notes to editors:
- One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
- Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than ten years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051
- Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them
- Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
- Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
- Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk
