Across the UK, almost one million people are living with dementia – and this number is expected to double by 2050.
Dementia is also a significant challenge for the NHS and is forecast to cost the UK economy £90bn in 2040, with residential care representing almost half of these forecasted costs.
We know that as people get older, their housing needs change. And for many people, staying in their own home helps them live happier, healthier lives.
That’s why through our support of West Yorkshire’s Dementia-ready Housing Taskforce, set up by Mayor Tracy Brabin, we’re committed to ensuring people living with dementia can stay independent in their homes and communities for longer.
In January, housing and health professionals from across our region came together for a workshop chaired by Helen Lennon, Chair of the Dementia-ready Taskforce and CEO of Connect Housing. The aim was to identify areas where better joined-up working could help to improve services for people living with dementia and their carers.
The workshop included valued feedback from the Dementia Engagement and Empowerment Project (DEEP) as well as Engage Leeds – and their input will play a crucial part in improving our homes and services.
Key themes raised during the workshop included the need for greater awareness of dementia and specialised training for staff, as well as more clarity for residents on how they can get help with adaptations, assessments and care costs.
The need for improved communication underpinned several of the themes raised. Practical suggestions included offering in-person meetings and longer appointments so residents have more time to process information and ask questions.
“Questions about income when applying for things like wet rooms are invasive and uncomfortable, and some people will miss out as a result.” – Housing resident with lived experience of dementia.
The number of forms that need completing when moving into or leaving a property was also raised as an issue. We know that moving home can be a stressful time, and this can be amplified further for people living with dementia.
“The paperwork involved was very difficult, especially ending the tenancy on my previous property. I wish there was more support for form-filling because there is so much when moving house.” – Another resident with lived experience of dementia.
It was also suggested that housing providers should implement the working carers passport to better support employees who are juggling work with caring responsibilities.
The taskforce is made up of representatives from the West Yorkshire Housing Partnership, West Yorkshire Combined Authority, five local authorities of West Yorkshire and third sector organisations including the Alzheimer’s Society. Together, we are committed to ensuring older people’s housing and services are dementia-friendly, and we have already developed a guide to creating a dementia-ready home which our partnership members are committed to.
Alongside these physical changes to homes, the taskforce has a network of champions across our partnership who are carrying out actions from the Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia-friendly housing guide.
Find out more and discover our work in action on the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s website.