Research finds dementia services gap in Hobart
New research reported on ABC Hobart online has suggested carers of people with dementia in Hobart are struggling to obtain services. Aged care experts say patients are waiting up to 12 months for specialist community care.
Researchers have spent two years looking at the experiences of carers trying to access community support.
Dr Christine Stirling, from the Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, says the Hobart carers had concerns about waiting lists and not being eligible or able to afford services.
She says the study needs to be expanded to include more carers statewide.
“We really need to have a better look at how we can support people and really understand what they are needing,” she said.
Aged care specialist Dr David Dunbabin, says dementia patients are waiting up to 12 months for community care packages, putting them at risk of injury and malnourishment or other other medical problems.
