Call for more support workers as people living with Dementia in Wiltshire increases
The effects of Covid have impacted those with the condition
Wiltshire's Alzheimers Support are calling for more support workers for the county as the number of people living Dementia has risen.
NHS Digital figures show that 4,293 older people in Wiltshire have a dementia diagnosis, however the number of those living with the condition is estimated to be around 7,271.
Many have faced the brunt of the pandemic as loss of relationships and not seeing their family and loved ones has had an effect on their development.
Stephany Bardzil, Head of Communications and Fundraising at Alzheimer's support said the routines that many people were relying on 'went out of the window' during lockdown.
"One Wiltshire family said that overnight every single part of their dad's life, that kept him going, was taken away from him. He had nothing to do and no one contact as no one could visit him and so he declined.
"We have heard this story time and time again from those that had a social life and routines in place before the pandemic.
"But then we saw people who were able to get out and about at the beginning of the pandemic, but those who lost that, couldn't develop their skills and their memories worsen more rapidly, meaning people had to go in to full time care, rather than spending those last couple of years at home with their families."
FIGURES ARE ON THE RISE
According to the Alzheimer's Society the number of people living with Dementia in Wiltshire will increase by 57% in the next 10 years.
Research by them predicts it could reach 11,420 in 2030.
Stephany says with the figures rising the work load for carers has also increased.
"Going into lockdown their support networks disappeared meaning they were left with extra worry having to look after more people.
"It was very, very tough but we kept in touch with everybody and carried on doing as many home support visits as we could but there has been a huge demand for support workers.
"Not just for that but for outings and to take people to different activities."
THE COST OF CARING FOR DEMENTIA SUFFERERS
The total cost of caring for people with dementia in Wiltshire is around £325 million, with the figure expected to increase to £560 million by 2030.
Across England, the health and social care cost for those with dementia is expected to reach £50.5 billion when the unpaid support from family and friends is factored in.
The costs refer to the entire sum required to support older people living with dementia, rather than the extra cost of dementia care alone.
SUPPORT AVAILABLE
As well as one to one home support visits, there are other options of available.
This week the memory cafes in Harnham and in Chippenham have reopened. As well as the art and singing groups that take place across the county.
Muddy Boots, an outdoor hands on practical gardening club where people can meet their friends, get that informal support to go out and enjoy an activitiy to gether, which is very important.
To find out more about what is available with Wiltshire's Alzheimer's Support, click here.