Ms Clodagh Whelan:

We hear directly from family carers that there are two issues that arise. The first is the struggle to find respite places. Anecdotally, we hear via our service managers, helplines and dementia advisers, that family carers need a break from their caring role and respite is not available.

There is another issue, however, which is that sometimes respite in an institutional setting is not ideal for a person living with dementia. A person living with dementia would like to be in familiar surroundings. They would like to maintain their hobbies and interests and the sense of familiarity, comfort, and knowing who is caring for them. Continuity of care is critical when supporting a person living with dementia. That is not always ideal. Sometimes increased day care, our day care at home service, which offers block hours, and increased psychosocial supports, can also provide very welcome respite. We view respite in a continuum, not just that kind of residential setting.