A Call for Equality in Dementia Care
Dementia doesn’t discriminate by age, yet the rights of those affected certainly do. For individuals under 67 grappling with dementia, particularly those suffering from alcohol-related forms of the disease, access to crucial municipal services remains alarmingly limited.
On December 2 of last year, the Icelandic Parliament took a significant step by approving a measure that extends municipal services to all individuals diagnosed with dementia. Previously, these essential supports were only available to those aged 67 and older, leaving many vulnerable individuals without appropriate care.
Before this historic decision, people under 67 were relegated to social services, with access to support very much in question. Alarmingly, those suffering specifically from alcohol-related dementia were excluded altogether from consideration.
The reasoning behind this exclusion is troubling. Comments from officials indicated a belief that “alcohol dementia is not a disease that inherently progresses.” This viewpoint was met with skepticism from the Psychiatric Center, which raised valid concerns about the classification of alcohol dementia. They argued that the term is poorly defined and often confuses alcohol-related cognitive decline with other forms of dementia. The center strongly recommended that individuals suffering from alcohol dementia also receive the protections afforded by the new legislation.
While the Ministry of Health supported this inclusive perspective, the Ministry of Social Affairs and Culture took a different stance, arguing against including those with alcohol-related dementia. However, they did acknowledge that the topic could be revisited with municipalities should the need for services arise.
Martin Kúrberg, head of the Room, articulated a poignant critique of the current distinctions made among those afflicted by dementia. “Why create hierarchies among people who all have the same fundamental needs?” he questioned. He highlighted that, at present, five individuals are residing at Herbergið due to a lack of alternative options, underscoring the urgency of addressing this issue. “It’s heartbreaking to see differences based on the cause of dementia when what matters is the care we provide,” Kúrberg added.
As discussions continue, the call for equal treatment and access to care for all individuals facing dementia remains a pressing concern in Iceland.
