During the COVID-19 pandemic, Greece has been on total lock down. The Greek government has taken certain action, however, to ensure that people with dementia and their families continue to have access to counselling, support and remote services such as psychosocial interventions, electronic prescribing etc. Alzheimer Athens has advised people with dementia to stay as active as possible while remaining in confinement. To achieve this goal, the association has provided physical and cognitive exercises and daily tips, through its website and social media activity. The Chair of Alzheimer Athens, Dr Paraskevi Sakka, a neurologist/psychiatrist, has developed and circulated guidelines for people with dementia, on how to handle this difficult situation in the best possible way.
Day care centres continue to operate daily, from 9.00-19.00, with a reduced staff offering counselling sessions, medical advice, information and support sessions via telephone and videoconferences. Alzheimer Athens also operates a national 24-hour telephone support helpline (1110), in collaboration with the administration of the region of Attica. This helpline is staffed by the experienced health professionals of Alzheimer Athens.
