Dementia sufferers and their relatives should take part Saxony-Anhalt will get better support in the future. Among other things, all affected people – wherever they live – should receive dementia-specific individualized advice and training, as announced by the Ministry of Social Affairs. In addition, unaffected people in companies and institutions should be made aware of their contact with people suffering from dementia.
According to information, currently there are around 56,000 people living in Saxony-Anhalt dementiathat is, about every 38th person. This is the highest proportion compared nationally. According to estimates, the number is expected to double by 2060.
Strategy with four areas
The measures are part of the state government’s so-called dementia strategy. It aims to create a “more dementia-friendly living environment”. In addition, medical and nursing services must be further developed, those affected must receive better support and research into dementia must be promoted.
The strategy is based on the National Dementia Strategy and international standards, but adapted to conditions in Saxony-Anhalt, he said. Acute challenges such as lack of services and supplies, staff shortages, bureaucratic obstacles and lack of cross-sector networks are also taken into account.
According to the information, actors from the counties and townships of Saxony-Anhalt, representatives of the health care system, nursing services, social associations, science and municipalities as well as those affected and their relatives took part in this.
Grimm-Benne: This offering is intended to prevent isolation
“Dementia is a challenge that we have to face as a society,” said Saxony-Anhalt Minister of Social Affairs Petra Grimm-Benne (SPD). This disease also presents new challenges for family members every day. Many of them perform care and maintenance outside of their daily duties and jobs and often neglect their own needs for long periods of time.
“Especially because many dementia sufferers want to stay at home as long as possible, there is a need for comprehensive support that provides orientation, support and prevents isolation,” said the Minister of Finance.
© dpa-infocom, dpa:251121-930-321162/1
