Carers Of People With Dementia ‘Want Help’

Families caring for a loved-one with dementia in Scotland want more information and support, according to a survey. The study found fewer than 30% of those looking after someone with the condition were satisfied with the level of care available for the elderly.

Almost half were unhappy with the information they received when the patient was diagnosed and most said they were not told about the services available to help them cope.

More than 300 people responded to the poll, carried out by Alzheimer Scotland and other charities. Dementia affects approximately 64,000 people in Scotland.

Jim Jackson, chief executive for Alzheimer Scotland, said they would be calling on the Scottish Executive to take action to ensure carers received the help they need.

Mr Jackson said: “Caring for a person with dementia can place huge emotional and physical strain on carers and this should be acknowledged by providing them with the necessary information, support and training both at the point of diagnosis and as the illness progresses.”