New research reveals more support needed for people with dementia and their carers

Conducted by The Alzheimer Society of Ireland and Lundbeck (Ireland) Ltd, the research further revealed that 26% of carers have had to stop work altogether while over a quarter of carers (28%) have had to reduce the number of hours worked in order to care (1).

"Alzheimer's disease and related dementias have a life changing physical, emotional and mental impact on both the affected person and their carer. This research shows that caring for someone with a dementia is more than a fulltime job. Significant improvements are needed to support carers and assist them in caring for their loved one and themselves," said Mr Maurice O'Connell, CEO, The Alzheimer Society of Ireland."˜Timely and equitable access to training, financial supports and community-based dementia services, such as respite care, are vital to support the dignity and independence of individuals and families living with dementia," he continued.

The research revealed that 56% of carers feel they do not have sufficient income to look after the person they care for, yet despite this 48% of carers have had to pay for additional help to care for the person with Alzheimer's disease or dementia (1).

Over one third of those with Alzheimer's disease / dementia (34%) are currently in the middle stage of the condition (1). The research has shown that the most difficult tasks for patients at this stage include difficulties with memory (93%), concentration (81%), following conversation (77%), finding belongings (77%), being left alone (76%) and showering, bathing and washing (74%) (1).

Canadian group "One More Memory" travelled to Ireland for the first time to launch the research results and help raise awareness of Alzheimer's disease. Brenda Hounam, diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and singer songwriter Sara Westbrook, have written a song "One More Memory" from the unique perspective of a person with Alzheimer's disease to help loved ones cope with the unpredictable symptoms of the disease.

Speaking at the launch of the research results, Brenda Hounam, spoke openly of her sadness at the thought of being unable to recognise her children and the pain this would cause them. "Since being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, everyday is a challenge. Relationships can be difficult to maintain and every daily function that I was previously able to perform so effortlessly has become a mountain that I have to climb on a daily basis," said Brenda."Making a sandwich or getting ready to go out now takes me three times longer. I have learned to be very proactive and to establish routines, implement aids and to do whatever is necessary to function to the best of my ability," she continued.

There are almost 40,000 people in Ireland with Alzheimer's disease / dementia and 50,000 carers caring for someone with one of the 6 recognised symptoms of the condition (2). Alzheimer's disease / dementia affects approximately one in 20 people over the age of 60 and one in five people over 85 years. Estimates suggest that with our ageing population and longer life expectancy 104,000 people will be affected dementia by 2036 (2). For further information or advice contact Alzheimer National Helpline on 1 800 341 341 weekdays 10 am to 4 pm.

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References
1) Alzheimer's Disease Research - August 2007
2) The Alzheimer Society of Ireland

Editors Notes
6 Recognised Symptoms of dementia

1. Marked Forgetfulness
2. Wandering / losing one's way
3. Restlessness / agitated behaviour
4. Aggressive outbursts
5. Confusion to the point of interfering with everyday life
6. Disturbed sleep / wandering at night

Further information on One More Memory can be obtained on www.onemorememory.com