JULY 2007

New Alzheimer's unit in Carndonagh

A 2.7 million unit has been opened in Carndonagh catering for Alzheimer's patients who were forced to travel around 50 miles or more to access care. Named Aoibhinn - meaning 'High Pleasant Place' - the new unit at Carndonagh Community Hospital has opened its doors to Alzheimer's patients and their families, offering medical and therapeutic care. With a shortage of care for Alzheimer's sufferers across Inishowen and Donegal, the new facility is a real coup for the peninsula.

The service is an important addition to Inishowen providing local health care for those who had previously had to travel to Stranorlar, Ballybofey for treatment. The unit is providing pioneering holistic therapy treatment to the peninsula, alongside traditional medical care. Treatments include relaxation methods and memory work - with specialist health care staff working alongside patients' families to retrace a sufferer's history in a bid to improve their memory. This work includes looking at family photo albums, old books, and visiting familiar locations.

Director of nursing Maura Gillen said: "Previously the service available in Stranorlar was not suitable, primarily for geographical reasons. The fact we now have a dedicated facility in Inishowen means less travel for families. "Patients and families will no longer have to travel 50 miles or more - something which in itself is a distress on top of the already distressing condition.

The unit has 15 dedicated nurses, a ward sister, a deputy ward sister and 14 support staff, an occupational therapist, a physical therapist, and a speech language therapist. With such a multi-skilled staff, the unit can boast a variety of treatments and the care specialises on looking after those patients who are displaying challenging behaviour. Maura said: "We deal with people who are mostly mobile, but confused. Families and patients are dealing with erratic and changing behaviours and we are there to offer support." As well as all of this, the facility offers respite for families who care for loved ones with Alzheimers, providing a much needed break for relatives.

At the moment the centre is operating with six respite beds, a service which in future unit bosses would hope to see extended. Maura said: "Respite care is invaluable in the community. People who look after a family member full time need a break and this service provides that."

The ultra modern building offers eight single rooms, and four double. It is hoped the new service will transform health care across the peninsula, making quality of life the most important factor in the treatment of the condition which so many are living with in the community.

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