Naughten calls for swift action on dementia strategy

In Health by Denis Naughten

Denis Naughten has called on the Minister for Health to act quickly to implement the Irish National Dementia Strategy, which is expected to be publishing in the coming months.
Speaking ahead of National Alzheimers Day this Sunday, Denis Naughten welcomed the fact that the strategy will be published in the coming months but emphasised that action then needs to be taken on its implementation straight away.

“The number of people with dementia in Ireland is expected to treble by as soon as 2041 so it is vital that we act now to ensure the necessary services are in place,” stated Denis Naughten. “This strategy was to be in place by 2013 so I would urge the Minister to ensure that it is acted on before the end of this year.

“We need to ensure that both the health and social needs of those living with dementia are met in the interest of both the patient and their families. Similar strategies have been implemented in other countries and have proved beneficial for those affected by dementia,” concluded Denis Naughten.