Welsh Assembly Government Opens Up Debate On Dementia, Wales

Main Category: Alzheimer's / Dementia
Also Included In: Mental Health
Article Date: 21 Jun 2009 - 1:00 PDT

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New plans to improve the support and care for individuals and their families living with dementia were announced by Health Minister Edwina Hart.

Statistics from Alzheimer's Society show that there are currently more than 37,000 people with dementia in Wales, and this is set to rise to almost 50,000 within 20 years. One in three people over 65 are expected to die with a form of dementia, according to the charity.

The Assembly Government asked a group of experts led by Ian Thomas, the Director of Alzheimer's Society, to develop a Dementia Action Plan for Wales and this is now being issued for a 12 week consultation.

The plan draws together current policies and strategies and proposes a series of actions for Wales to meet the challenges of planning and delivering better services for people with dementia.

Mrs Hart said:

"Dementia is a distressing and debilitating condition for the individual and can be equally as distressing for their loved ones. It will affect us all in one way or another in our lifetime.

"The National Dementia Action Plan has drawn together current policies and strategies and proposes a number of actions to be taken in Wales over both the short and long term to help us meet some very major challenges.

"I hope that people will read the group's document and through this consultation exercise let us know what their views are so that the Welsh Assembly Government can develop and provide improved dementia services that meet the needs of the people of Wales." Ian Thomas, said:

"This is an unrivalled opportunity for people to give their views on how we can change the lives of families living with dementia in Wales. The numbers of people with dementia are set to soar and this action plan takes us closer to making sure that everyone affected receives the vital support they need, both now and in the future.

"With the right leadership and proper investment, this plan has the potential to change lives. Alzheimer's Society, will continue to work closely with Welsh Assembly Government to ensure it becomes a reality."

The action plan is now available for public consultation and views are sought from all those personally affected by dementia, those working in the sector and the population at large.

Source
Welsh Assembly Government