Hi Val
I have to disagree with Mr Coopers post about how far ahead of the UK the care of those people with Dementia is in France
When I went back to work after having my children in 1985 my job was with a team of people, nurses, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, psychologist and doctor, who assessed those clients with signs of early dementia. We travelled to two bases for two days each a week. Clients could be referred by anyone, local GP, a relative, social worker anyone who suspected the person was showing signs of dementia. We assessed them medically, mentally and physically. Travel to the assessment centre and meals were provided free of charge.
I went to their home to make sure they had all the equipment they needed to make life easier for them and their carer. If help was needed in the home, then home care was arranged. The client paid for this facility, though it was means tested. After assessment, which was usually around six weeks, they were referred to an appropriate facility if they or their carer wanted this.
The carer was also interviewed to gain an insight into problems they may have had in the home. They were given a list of agencies who would arrange for a 'sitter' to stay with the client while the carer went shopping, hair done etc.
A support group was set up for the carers on a day when the client was at the day centre so they could discuss their problems, worries etc with professionals and other carers.
Apart from home care and the sitting service this was of no cost to the client or carer.
When I moved from East Yorkshire to the south west I continued to work within this field. Similar facilities were available.
I left work in 2009 and though I had changed to specialise in another area of my profession I still came into contact with people suffering from some form of dementia. I was able to refer them to the appropriate medical staff who made sure their and their carers needs were met.
Naturally I can only speak of geographical areas I worked but I attended national courses in England were I met with professionals who were working in the same field trying to tackle the 'Rising Tide' as it was known, of people with different types of dementia.
S
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