Press release
Minister for Mental Health and Older People launches expanded National Dementia Adviser Service
From Department of Health
Published on
Last updated on
From Department of Health
Published on
Last updated on
The Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler TD, has today launched the expanded National Dementia Adviser Service at an online webinar hosted by the National Dementia Office (NDO) and the Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland (ASI).
Minister Butler said:
“I have long been an advocate for the development of services for people with dementia and their families and was pleased to secure funding in this year's budget for 11 new dementia advisers, to expand this vital service. This brings the total number of dementia advisers to 28 nationally, improving access to this service for thousands of people in communities across the country.
“Improving and enhancing access to post diagnostic supports for those with a diagnosis of dementia is a key priority for me in my role as Minister for Mental Health and Older People. The practical and tailored advice and support provided by the National Dementia Adviser Service in navigating services after a diagnosis of dementia will assist people living with dementia to live well in their communities."
Minister Butler continued:
“Building on the investment made this year in community-based dementia services, I have secured an additional €7.3 million in Budget 2022 for dementia to allow for further developments which will promote sustainability, timely access to care, and enhance pathways of care for all people living with dementia. In addition, the proportion of new home support hours that will be ring-fenced for people with dementia will more than double from 5% in 2021 to 11% in 2022.
“Taken together, this will represent €15 million of investment dedicated to dementia in 2022, to supplement the €12.9 million of additional funding in 2021."
Minister Butler concluded:
“This investment, including the dedicated funding allocated to expand the dementia adviser service will go a significant way in ensuring that people with dementia and their families have access to the right supports, enabling and empowering them to live safely and independently in their own communities.
"I would like to acknowledge the ongoing commitment of all those involved and, in particular, the Alzheimer Society of Ireland and the National Dementia Office, in bringing these vital services and supports to fruition."