The publication of the national dementia stategy is good news.  In time, it should lead to more people being diagnosed earlier and to improved services, both for people with dementia and carers of people who have dementia.

With funding provided by the Freemasons' Grand Charity, EAC has been working to improve our knowledge of different accommodation and care options for elderly people who have dementia, particularly when they are diagnosed early.  Traditionally people with dementia have usually stayed in their own home, with many being admitted to care homes in later stages.  Late diagnosis has led to there being few alternatives.  This is still what happens for many people.  Housing providers have been working hard to improve services however and now an increasing number of sheltered and retirement housing schemes offer on-site care services.  A small number of these schemes provide specialist services for people who have dementia, enabling them to live in their own flat in a supportive and enabling environment.  EAC is able to advise callers to their Advice Line whether there are any schemes like this in their area.  EAC also has information about care homes for people who have dementia.

The strategy promises a personal dementia advisor for everyone with a diagnosis.  This proposal is particularly welcome.  With the help of an advisor, a person diagnosed at an early stage can be meaningfully involved in planning for their own future needs.

EAC looks forward to assisting in the provision of high quality information for people who have dementia, as well as for their family and carers.