Claire Dolan
Information and Helpline Manager, The Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland
In Ireland, approximately 64,000 people are living with dementia, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common form among the over 200 types of dementia.
Dementia is a physical illness characterised by damage to brain cells, affecting memory, cognition, communication and daily functioning.
Services designed for people with dementia
Receiving a dementia diagnosis can be an isolating experience, often leaving individuals and their families unsure of where to seek help. The Alzheimer Society of Ireland (The ASI) provides an array of services to support those living with dementia and their caregivers. These services includedaycare, daycare at home, dementia adviser services, cafes, support clubs, mobile information services, family carer training, social clubs and a national helpline.
National helpline for dementia
The ASI’s National Helpline is a confidential service offering information and support to people with dementia, their families, carers, individuals concerned about memory issues and professionals in the field. The Freephone number is available to callers within the Republic of Ireland and can be reached at 1800 341 341. The helpline operates Monday to Friday from 10 am to 5 pm and Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm.
The helpline aims to provide accurate, current, accessible and relevant information as well as emotional support. It has achieved a quality standard from Helplines Partnership for the second time, underscoring its commitment to high-quality service delivery. Helpline advisers and trained volunteers can offer confidential advice on:
- Information about dementia and memory loss
- Different causes of dementia
- How a diagnosis is made
- Accessing services and supports
- Practical tips for daily living
- Legal and financial matters
- Emotional support and more
Online live chat service
For those who prefer online communication, a confidential live chat service is available at alzheimer.ie. The live chat operates Monday to Friday from 10 am to 11 am and 3 pm to 5 pm, as well as Saturday from 10 am to 1 pm.
This service provides the same level of support and information as the National Helpline, ensuring that help is accessible in a format that suits different needs. The Alzheimer Society of Ireland stands as a beacon of support and information for those navigating the challenges of dementia, offering vital resources to enhance quality of life and provide guidance through the journey.
