Author Archives: Maureen
Despite the widespread nature of dementia, many sufferers still live in silence
Vital steps to stop Alzheimer’s victims suffering in silence
THE scourge of dementia is now so widespread that health experts have issued the first step-by-step guide to living with the crippling condition.
Research shows that the vast majority of people with Alzheimer’s want to stay in the comfort of their home for as long as possible.
But in many cases their carers – nearly always spouses or family members – are simply overwhelmed.
Many people living with dementia have been forced to leave their safe havens, which is unacceptable
Nurses to train in basic care, ministers to say
26 March 2013 Last updated at 01:23
Nurses to train in basic care, ministers to say
By Nick Triggle Health correspondent, BBC News
Nurses will have to spend time as healthcare assistants doing basic tasks such as washing and dressing before completing their degree training, ministers are proposing.
The move is part of a package of measures to be unveiled in response to the Stafford hospital inquiry.
Ministers will concede later a change of culture is needed across the system.
It comes after the inquiry claimed the public had been betrayed over the way the scandal was handled.
Previous reports have documented harrowing neglect and abuse at the hospital between 2005 to 2008.
Statistics at the time showed there were between 400 and 1,200 more deaths than would be expected.
NHS 111 phone number sparks concern
NHS 111 phone number sparks concern
By Michelle Roberts Health editor, BBC News online
Doctors are questioning the safety of a new non-emergency NHS telephone advice line launching in England.
The 111 service, replacing NHS Direct, is being piloted in many regions but has proved problematic, with some callers left on hold for hours.
Dr Laurence Buckman, the British Medical Association’s GP committee chair, says wider rollout should be stalled.
The Department of Health says it is giving some areas extra time.
It has already sanctioned an extension of up to six months of the original 1 April 2013 deadline for regions struggling to set up the new service.
