What people have told us
People with dementia and carers told us that they felt that GPs knew little about dementia. They said it was often difficult to get a diagnosis and that they felt abandoned after a diagnosis had been made. They said that they were often let down by professionals and that they really valued the contact they had with local support groups. They also felt care in care homes was not as good as suggested by inspectors.
Carers said that they did not feel valued by hospital staff and and gave a number of examples of poor hospital practice particularly in relation ensuring that people with dementia were able were able to eat their meals. Carers rarely had a carers’ assessment, and said they had great difficulty in getting a break from their caring responsibilities.
People with dementia and carers said they wanted access to good information and regular support. They were hopeful that the new dementia advisors would really help them to know what was best and where to get support from.