Memory clinics will become an ‘essential element’ of social care in Island communities.
That’s the message from a consultant psychiatrist who set up the Isle of Man Memory Service in 1998.
It’s now celebrating two decades of progress – marking its 20th anniversary this week.
Dr Chris Jagus leads the service from the old Noble’s Hospital site in Douglas.
It provides specialist assessment, investigation, diagnosis and treatment each year to 450 people experiencing dementia and memory problems.
Patients are offered a personalised programme of support – alongside treatments – to help them remain independent for as long as possible.
Dr Jagus says: "The way the Memory Service has developed over the last 20 years reflects the hard work and dedication of the team, and this anniversary is the ideal occasion to raise awareness of our work.
"We are proud to provide a comprehensive and timely assessment of diagnosis and needs, to give people with dementia and their carers the treatment and support they require.
"In view of the significantly increasing numbers of people with dementia in the population, memory clinics are becoming an essential element of social care in our community.
"We look forward to the service developing further over the next 20 years as we strive to meet the island’s changing needs."
Statistics show the number of people aged 65 and over on the Isle of Man will increase by at least 30 per cent by the year 2036.
