25.09.13
Greater support needed for dementia carers
Carers for people with dementia are not getting the support and advice they need, a new report from Carers Trust has warned.
A survey found only 51% of carers were given an opportunity to talk separately about their own needs and how much care they felt they could provide, while 56% had not received information about managing the patient’s medication. 82% said caring had adversely affected their ability to work.
The report also highlighted a lack of information and guidance about how to cope with incontinence, manage legal issues and finances, and more agitated behaviour in the later staged of the illness.
Carers Trust calls for greater access to advice and support for carers of people with dementia, before the condition progresses.
Chief executive, Thea Stein said: “The evidence from this report has highlighted the fact that all professionals will need to check that carers have the information and advice appropriate for the challenges they are currently experiencing and that they know where to go for further information and advice.
“Carers should be aware that there is support available to them. Local carer support services can guide carers through this journey, help them source vital information when they need it and provide much-needed emotional support and respite breaks.”
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