Category Archives: family
Thousands of dementia sufferers rarely see loved ones
Tens of thousands of elderly people with dementia see friends or family just once a week according to a landmark report warning of an “epidemic of loneliness” among Britain’s most vulnerable.
The study by the Alzheimer’s Society says that 250,000 people – almost one third of those suffering from dementia – are now living alone in their own homes.
Of those, 29 per cent only see friends or family once a week, while 23 per cent can only expect one weekly phone call.
Jeremy Hughes, the charity’s chief executive said: “This report reveals the stark truth that too many people with dementia, especially the thousands who live alone, are truly isolated.
“We need to put a stop to this epidemic of loneliness, not only to improve quality of life but also to save thousands from reaching crisis point and being admitted to hospital unnecessarily or care homes early.”
Wonderful volunteers helping the sick and carers stuck in the snow
Volunteers help nurses reach critically ill patients
22 March 2013
Snow response in north Wales
As heavy weather causes disruption across the UK, our volunteers are helping nurses reach critically ill patients and delivering vital medication through the snow.
Following a call-out from health officials in North Wales, Red Cross emergency response teams are currently using Land Rover 4×4 vehicles to provide help in very challenging circumstances.
One team is battling through the blustery conditions to ensure nurses can continue to reach – and treat – the critically ill in their own homes. Another Land Rover is being used to run vital insulin supplies to the homes of patients.