Greek National Observatory for Dementia - Alzheimer

According to the latest figures, there are 200,000 people living with dementia in Greece and 400,000 caregivers looking after them. These numbers will increase dramatically in the years to come, making dementia one of the most crucial medical, societal and economic challenges in Greece, as is all over the world.

Recognising the magnitude of the issue and responding to lobbying efforts from the Alzheimer Associations, in October 2013, the Greek state assigned a working group to develop a National Dementia Strategy. In September 2014, after a consultation period, the group presented the final draft. Key priorities of the strategy are to raise public and professional awareness, promote early diagnosis and intervention and create support services towards ameliorating the quality of life of people with dementia and their caregivers.

In December 2014, the Greek Parliament enacted a law, supported by the entire Greek political spectrum, to ensure the implementation of the strategy. This law authorises the establishment of an independent public institution: the National Observatory for Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. The Observatory will act under the guiding principles of respect, support and promotion of patients’ rights and will fulfil the following objectives:

1. Ensure the implementation and subsequent updates of the National Dementia Strategy.

2. Provide official guidance to the Parliament, the Ministry of Health and other public authorities on legislative and policy measures related to dementia.

3. Coordinate and promote the work of public and nongovernmental agents and associations, in order to ensure efficient services to patients and their caregivers.

4. Provide specific guidance for organising and promoting the national policy in research and education.

The Observatory has an interdisciplinary profile engaging health professionals, scientists, caregivers and other members with specific expertise and its operation must not be affected by governmental changes.

CONTACT INFO

The Secretariat of the "Greek National Observatory for Dementia- Alzheimer", to which you can address or submit any request, operates the working days and hours for the Public Services.

Secretary: Eri Samikou

tel: 213 216 11 60

email: esamikou@moh.gov.gr