The National Dementia Strategy
The National Dementia Strategy, published by the Department of Health, was launched on 17 December 2014.
The Government made a commitment in the Programme for Government 2011-2016 to develop a National Dementia Strategy for Ireland by 2013. The development of the strategy was informed by a research review, a review of international dementia policies/plans/strategies, review of Irish policy contexts, public consultation process, clinicians’ roundtable on the National Dementia Strategy, workshops with people with dementia and carers, and input from National Advisory Group.
The aim of the Strategy is to improve dementia care so that people with dementia can live well for as long as possible, can ultimately die with comfort and dignity, and can have services and supports delivered in the best way possible.
The Strategy identifies key principles to underpin and inform the full range of health and social care services provided to people with dementia, their families and carers. Six Priority Areas for Action have been identified in the Strategy, as follows:
- Better awareness and understanding
- Timely diagnosis and intervention
- Integrated services, supports and care for people with dementia and their carers
- Training and education
- Research and information systems
- Leadership
The National Dementia Office was established in 2015 to oversee the implementation of the strategy. A mid-term review of the National Dementia Strategy was published in 2018. You can view the National Dementia Strategy and the mid-term review of the Strategy below, as well as an evaluation of the National Dementia Strategy.