Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 11 May 2022
264. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if his Department classifies Alzheimer's disease as an official disability as this would allow people to attain the rights and entitlements that being declared a disabled person would allow them to have; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23777/22]
View answerThe Health Service Executive (HSE), funded by the Department of Health, provides and funds a range of services and supports for people with disabilities in order to empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives.
These services include adult day services, respite, home support, personal assistant services, residential services and therapy services.
Access to services is provided for on the basis of individual need and not of any specific diagnosis.
I have asked to HSE to respond to directly to the Deputy with regard to pathways of care available for people with Alzheimer's disease, as soon as possible.
