MPs push for Dementia Fund to help with dementia care costs

A group of 68 MPs has written an open letter to Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, asking for those with dementia to be given a personal budget.

According to a report by the Alzheimer’s Society, a person living with dementia in the UK will spend an average of £100,000 on their care. It is in light of these figures that the cross-party selection of MPs submitted their letter, which points out that ‘while people with cancer have their treatment costs covered by the NHS, those with dementia struggle to finance the increasing costs of care as council-run social care is cut back.’

1/4 of hospital beds are taken up by patients with dementia

The Alzheimers’ Society's report highlighted a number of startling statistics when it came to dementia and hospital acceptance. In 2016-17, there was a 70% increase in the number of emergency admissions of over-65’s with dementia in just five years, with one quarter of beds occupied with dementia patients.

It is hoped that the MPs letter will help to tackle current social care struggles, providing much-needed support whilst the wait for social care Green Paper continues. There are also predicted benefits for the NHS, as with more people able to afford good dementia care or adjustments to their home, fewer people would need to be admitted to hospital at crisis point. 

Jeremy Hughes, Chief Executive at Alzheimer’s Society, said: “The overwhelming cross party support shown through the open letter to the Health Secretary illustrates how indisputable this crisis is. A Dementia Fund will provide help now to remedy the situation for people with dementia, while we wait for the Green Paper and a long-term sustainable funding solution for social care.”

At Allenbrook Nursing & Residential Care Home, we provide the best possible care for those living with dementia in Hampshire. Don't hesitate to contact us to find out more on 01425 656589.