Improvement of health and social care services for persons with dementia in Kaunas county : a feasibility study

Abstract

With increasing numbers of the elderly and increased life expectancy, there is a need to improve the availability and standards of health and social care services. Services for persons with dementia and their caregivers in Kaunas County are fragmented and scarce. The aim – to improve the health and social care services for the persons with dementia in Kaunas County. The methods: analysis of the current situation of persons with dementia in Kaunas County based on the data, documents, and other statistical resources; sociological qualitative study involving formal and informal caregivers and persons with dementia; cost-efficiency analysis in selected institutions; the final feasibility study.The results: analysis of the current situation of services for persons with dementia in municipalities of Kaunas County revealed the peculiarities in different municipalities, the disparities in rural and urban areas, and the shortage of the specialized services for persons with dementia. Sociological investigation revealed that the caregivers of persons with dementia mostly require early and timely diagnosis and respite care services in the community. 12 health and social care institutions, possibly serving persons with dementia, in Kaunas County were evaluated economically. The conclusions: 1) There is a great need for community based services, as day centers, in Kaunas County; 2) the health and social care institutions have to offer specialized services for persons with dementia; 3) the additional (non-state) financing is required to ensure required services for persons with dementia. * preparation of the study was managed by Kaunas Regional Development Agency by order of the Kaunas County Governor ‘s Administration.** the study financed by the PHARE PPF program project Nr. 2003/004.341.08.01.04.03