AQW 19425/17-22

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 25/05/2021
Answered On Date: 08/06/2021
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the (i) coronavirus mortality rates for people with dementia; (ii) impact of the social isolation resulting from lockdown measures on those living with dementia; and to detail the steps he is taking to prevent similar outcomes in any future wave of the virus.

Answer:

I have previously noted with concern the NISRA report in December 2020, which highlighted that in Covid-linked deaths that were registered between March 2020 and September 2020, 36% of those patients had a form of dementia. Given that nearly half (44%) of Covid-19 related deaths up to end September were residents of care homes, and nearly two-thirds (65.5%) were aged 80 or over, this may explain in part the high numbers but it does not make it any more acceptable. I am aware also that many people living with dementia will have other significant health vulnerabilities and needs that place them at particular risk from the Covid-19 virus.

The Alzheimer’s Society’s report “Worst Hit: Dementia during Coronavirus” highlighted the impact of Coronavirus, not only on those with dementia, but on their carers as well. The report provided an insight into how those with dementia have been affected, not only in terms of the virus itself and associated deaths, but also isolation and the link to deterioration of physical health, and the impact on mental health.

I acknowledge that for those living with dementia, the impact of social isolation has been detrimental in many cases. Lockdown measures have been difficult for everyone but impaired cognition and lack of understanding of the need for restrictions, together with the reduction in service provision (such as day centres and short-breaks) has created particular challenges for people with a dementia and their carers.

Professionals working in dementia care also recognise and report that the isolation resulting from lockdown measures is a possible contributory factor in many individuals presenting with more advanced symptoms than might ordinarily have been the case if the pandemic had not occurred. The expected increase in numbers of those presenting with initial or more acute dementia symptoms as a result of lockdown is being addressed by the HSCB, Integrated Care Partnerships and Trusts in their plans for the implementation of the regional Dementia Care Pathway.

Trusts, in collaboration with the HSCB and PHA, have developed Post-Coronavirus Service Recovery Plans, including plans for the full restoration of dementia care services. However, the timescale for this is predicated upon scientific advice and a sustainable reduction in the numbers of people testing positive for the virus.

Health and Social Care services will seek to learn from experiences during the pandemic and ensure that the lessons learned will inform future planning, design, commissioning and delivery of services.