Two thirds of Havering dementia sufferers not diagnosed, according to new report
Two thirds of dementia sufferers in the borough have not been diagnosed, according to a new report.
Regulators Healthwatch Havering held a series of workshops in March and April to determine the quality of the services for people with learning disabilities and dementia.
The report states: “Demographics suggest there should be around 3,000 people with a formal diagnosis but only 1,000 have been so diagnosed. The “missing” 2,000 should be identified quickly.”
The research suggests that the possibly reason for such a low diagnosis rate is “incorrect coding” at GP practices.
The report, which was due to be discussed at a council meeting last night (Thu) also reveals there is “little or no” support for people suffering from dementia and their carers.
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A Havering Council spokesman, said: “With the oldest population in London, we know how important it is to support people living with dementia and their carers. That’s why we are taking these comments from the report seriously and have discussed the concerns with Healthwatch.
It was also noted that carers need to have a greater awareness of clinical issues affecting people with dementia, with improved training highlighted as a possible solution.
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The spokesman added: “We have found there is not a lack of services or support available, but there is no single access point. We will be developing a borough information pack for learning disabilities and dementia, which all organisations can contribute to.”
Earlier this month, a supergroup of businesses, charities, GPs and Havering Council came together to form the Havering Dementia Action Alliance (HDAA).
Thousands of employees from 25 organisations signed up, but the group is still on the lookout for new members.
At the launch, Yvonne Wilson, of Romford, whose husband Derek suffers from Dementia, spoke about the need for people to understand the condition.
“I want to make people aware of people who have dementia and when they are out to help them, not to push them along and to make them hurry.”
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