18 September 2001
Media Statement

Working group to advise on quality of dementia care

A working group has been established to advise the Ministry of Health on improving the safety and quality of care for people with dementia in residential, respite and day services.

The group will hold its first meeting in Wellington tomorrow, Wednesday, 19 September.

Associate Minister of Health Ruth Dyson said the working group had been set up following concerns about the quality of some dementia care services.

"Older people with dementia are very vulnerable, and it is essential they receive the best possible care and support," Ms Dyson said.

Dr Hazel Lewis has been appointed as project manager of the group, which is made up of service providers, health professionals and other representatives from the aged care sector.

The group's terms of reference will be finalised at tomorrow's meeting. However, issues to be discussed include:
„X staff training and skills;
„X providing a safe and appropriate environment for people with dementia;
„X involving family members in the planning and provision of residents' care; and
„X use of medication and restraint procedures.

The group's final report is expected by the end of the year.

ENDS

Attached: list of members of dementia care working group
18 September 2001

Members of Ministry of Health Dementia Care Working Group

Age Concern: Amelda King
Alzheimers NZ: Liz Chesterman, Judy Cooper
Alzheimers advocate: Jenni Michel
Association of Residential Care Homes: Victoria Brown
Carers NZ: Laurie Hilsgen
Grey Power: Dennis Paget
Hospitals Association: Estelle Robinson
NZ Council of Trade Unions: Angela Harris
NZ Council of Christian Social Services: Liz Andrews
NZ Nurses Organisation: Jan Hide
Residential Care NZ: Brenda McIver
Royal NZ College of General Practitioners: Claire Austin
Maori representation: Keita Dawson, Chris Cunningham
Psychogeriatrician: Pam Melding
Consumer: John Corboy
Geriatrician: Nigel Millar
Younger people with dementia: Gaynor Nairn
Dementia researcher: Verna Schofield

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