Introduction
On 30 September 2018, the Gibraltar government published its second national dementia strategy, which will run between 2018-2021.
The first strategy, the National Vision and Strategy for Gibraltar 2015, was focused on the integration of health and social care, as well as the expansion of services and resources, whilst the 2018 strategy builds on this work, aiming for more timely diagnoses and improved care and treatment, including post-diagnostic support.
Outline of strategy
The strategy outlines a number of areas of focus to achieve its aims, including identifying eight outcomes which the strategy should achieve. These are:
- Earlier diagnosis of dementia prompting effective treatment and care.
- A smoother, seamless journey for those living with dementia, their families and health carers.
- Provide information for people living with dementia and their families/main carers.
- To continue training staff and supporting families/main carers to be able to champion suitable changes and innovation of services, in accordance with evidence based practice (as per NICE Guidelines June 2018, UK).
- To improve on the person centred care framework for all aspects of their medical and nursing treatment. This framework includes the participation of individuals and carers towards their plan of care.
- To allow those living with dementia the opportunity to continue living at home for as long as possible.
- To continue networking closely together with people living with dementia, families/main carers, GADS and any other voluntary organisations.
- To raise public awareness on dementia and eliminate any associated stigma.
Further information
Further information on the national strategy can be found at: https://www.gibraltar.gov.gi/press-releases/dementia-conference-7102019-5311
The strategy can be downloaded below.