The deputy leader of Havering Council highlighted that dementia has emerged as a significant health concern nationally, driven by an ageing population, especially in areas like Havering, which boasts a large elderly demographic. With more than 18% of residents over 65, addressing this issue has become crucial to ensure proper support and care is available for those affected.
The report emphasized that currently, 3,100 people may have dementia in Havering, yet only 1,757 have been diagnosed. This stark contrast indicates a pressing need for improved diagnosis rates, which fall below the national benchmark of 67%. Consequently, the council aims to identify an additional 335 cases to align with national standards.
As part of a comprehensive strategy, the council plans to enhance service quality and support for families. This includes developing new health records, increasing the caregiver workforce, and launching leisure programs tailored for individuals living with dementia, demonstrating a commitment to improving outcomes for residents.
The rise in referrals to memory clinics, projected to double from 550 in 2019 to over 1,000 by 2024, underscores the urgent demand for dementia services. This trend highlights the growing acknowledgment of dementia's prevalence and the need for proactive care strategies to manage this public health challenge effectively.
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