Madam, – In the article on dementia (HEALTHplus, September 21st), I found the words “burden”, “breaking point” and “soul destroying” used by Maurice O’Connell (the Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s chief executive) offensive.
He neither speaks for nor represents all Alzheimer and dementia carers and has no right to portray such a wholly negative picture of this disease and sufferers – who cannot speak for themselves – on what was World Alzheimer’s Day. Negative portrayal and language causes fear and disempowerment, in my view, when people are so badly needed to be there for their loved one.
Undoubtedly Alzheimer’s disease presents a great challenge both to the person with the illness and their caregivers. Usually people are unprepared for the road ahead and for the changes that occur as the disease progresses. But this is like rearing a child (albeit in reverse) – it’s a journey you face in hope, one stage at a time. It can’t be done alone, but it’s not acceptable either for carers sent into homes not to be Garda-vetted or have references provided, in my experience.
Instead of looking to the State “for immediate action” a more realistic alternative could be new, independent and voluntary local community Alzheimer and dementia alliances where funding for homecare could be raised through, for example, annual events, donations, personal supports, food/music/auction events, walks, golf outings, payroll contributions, etc.
I would also like to see a move from institutional care to small size, residential (care) homes where, again, as with child care, individual care and attention could be given. – Yours, etc,