Families in community ‘left to fend for themselves’ - Society

Bernadine McCrory, Alzheimer’s Society’s Director for Northern Ireland, said: “People across the Council area will have been heartened to hear local councillors speaking about the devastating impact that Covid-19 has had on those living with dementia.

“I’m frustrated that families and friends out in the community have been left to fend for themselves as the people they love with dementia have declined in front of their eyes.

“They have been fighting against the odds to give decent care to their loved ones. Worrying, according to NISRA, dementia is the most common underlying health conditions associated with deaths from the virus.”

Bernadine McCrory said the staff on the Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Connect support line speak to family carers every day “who can’t get time to see the GP, are working all hours and barely sleeping”.

“They’re completely burnt out,” she said. “The Government must never abandon families with dementia again. Lessons must be learnt to prevent any further tragedy this winter.

“Coronavirus has laid bare the dire state of social care for all to see – the lasting legacy from this crisis must be a universal social care system, free at the point of use, that provides quality care for every person with dementia who needs it.

“The motion that has been passed recognises the key role that informal carers play in the lives of Care Home residents and calls for safe visiting arrangements and also commits the Council to building dementia friendly communities through training for all staff.”

The Alzheimer’s Society charity provides information and support, funds research, campaigns to improve care and works to create lasting change for people affected by dementia in the north of Ireland as well as in England and Wales.