An increasing number of families of people with Alzheimer’s disease are finding it difficult to get help from the State and are turning to a local charity for assistance.
Western Alzheimers, which provides a homecare support service and has a residential home in Athenry, cared for 362 families last year.
This figure is increasing weekly as families struggle financially, according to John Grant, its chief executive.
“Families are finding it increasingly more difficult to get help from the statutory bodies and are turning to Western Alzheimers for their needs. Every one is under pressure financially nowadays.
“But when the need to care for a loved one with Alzheimers disease is thrown into the situation it causes great anxiety, stress and unrest in a family.
“If it were possible to give one little word of advice to families it is to work together, help each other, and share the burden of care.”
Appealing to people to support or organise Western Alzheimers tea days on Friday April 26 he says this event is a vital fundraiser for the organisation which provides home support in counties Galway, Mayo and Roscommon and respite care facilities at Marian House in Co Mayo and Maryfield in Athenry.
“To enable Western Alzheimers to continue helping all the families who need us we are asking people to help share the care with us. Please hold a tea day on Friday April 26th. For more information contact (091 ) 565193.”
