Alzheimer Society calls for mothers living with dementia to be recognised this Mother's Day

The increasing number of mothers living with dementia should be celebrated and recognised this Mother's Day, March 19, according to the The Alzheimer Society of Ireland (The ASI).

It is also encouraging those affected by the condition to reach out for support.

"Mother's Day is a time to celebrate and honour the mothers in our lives, but for those living with dementia and children whose mothers are affected, it can also be a difficult and emotional time," the ASI said.

The ASI also wishes to remember mothers who have passed away after living with dementia. While every day can be difficult when dealing with grief and loss, Mother’s Day can be particularly hard.

Dementia is a progressive brain disorder that can cause memory loss, difficulty with language, and changes in behaviour and thinking.

Additionally, mothers with a recent diagnosis of dementia may find it difficult to disclose their condition to their families - particularly their children - or be unaware of the supports and services available. They also might not feel ready to seek help. 

As the number of people living with dementia (PLWD) continues to rise, the need for support and resources becomes increasingly essential. Living with dementia can be physically and emotionally demanding, not just for the person with the condition but also for their families. Those affected by dementia must take time for themselves and seek support when needed.

Marie O’Brien’s mother Margaret was diagnosed with Early-Onset Alzheimer's Disease seventeen years ago. Marie, from Limerick, is a member of our Dementia Carers Campaign Network (DCCN). She said: 

 “Mother's Day can be an emotional time for many; particularly for mothers living with dementia, impacted by dementia, and those who have a mother living with the condition. If you are struggling, I want you to know The Alzheimer Society of Ireland is here to help; I encourage you to contact the organisation for support.

'On a personal note, I am celebrating my beautiful mam Margaret this Mother’s Day, who is the best mam in the world.” 
 The Alzheimer Society of Ireland Dementia Adviser for Kilkenny and Carlow, Claire Cahill said: 

“This Mother’s Day weekend, The ASI recognises mothers living with dementia, children whose mothers are affected - and is thinking of all the families who've lost a parent to the condition. 

‘Living with Alzheimer’s or related dementia can be a challenging journey for everyone involved. We would call on anyone affected by the condition, whether through their own experience or that of a loved one, to reach out to The Alzheimer Society of Ireland. Whatever the circumstance, we are here to offer advice and support.”

 Additionally, The Alzheimer Society of Ireland offers a variety of resources and support for PLWD, carers and families, including support groups, educational materials, and assistance with finding local resources.

Please visit alzheimer.ie/mothers-day  to learn more. 

For more information on their supports and services during this challenging time, please contact The Alzheimer Society of Ireland National Helpline. The Helpline is open six days a week, Monday to Friday, 10 am – 5 pm and Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm, on 1800 341 341. Email at helpline@alzheimer.ie or via Live Chat at www.alzheimer.ie

ABOUT DEMENTIA

●      There are 64,000 people with dementia in Ireland, and the number of people with the condition will double in the next 25 years to over 150,000 by 2045.*

●      There are 11,000 new cases of dementia in Ireland each year. That’s at least 30 people every day, and anyone can get dementia - even people in their 30s/40s/50s.**

●      Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a range of conditions which cause changes and damage to the brain.

●      Dementia is progressive. There is currently no cure. Dementia is not simply a health issue but a social issue that requires a community response.

●      Most people with dementia (63%) live at home in the community. Over 180,000 people in Ireland are currently or have been carers for a family member or partner with dementia, with many more providing support and care in other ways.

●      1 in 10 people diagnosed with dementia in Ireland is under 65.

●      The overall cost of dementia care in Ireland is just over €1.69 billion per annum; 48% of this is attributable to family care; 43% is by residential care; formal health and social care services contribute only 9% to the total cost.

*Figures referenced by Cahill, S. & Pierce, M. (2013) The Prevalence of Dementia in Ireland

*Figure referenced from Alzheimer Europe (2020) Dementia in Europe Yearbook 2019 ‘Estimating the prevalence of dementia in Europe’

**Figure referenced from Pierce, T., O’Shea, E. and Carney P. (2018) Estimates of the prevalence, incidence and severity of dementia in Ireland.