Nearly two thirds of GPs have serious concerns over how people with Alzheimer's disease are being cared for.
A national survey published today reveals that 60% of the country's doctors say current management practices are failing to recognise the needs of patients and their families.
The urgent need for respite care was highlighted by most GPs as the biggest problem facing the treatment of Alzheimer's in Ireland.
Doctors pointed out a number of areas where the acute shortage of beds is adding to what is described as a mounting crisis. Certain hospitals, such as Merlin Park in Galway, were singled out for particular criticism.
Amongst the findings of two national surveys commissioned by the Alzheimer Society of Ireland was the fact that most doctors believe only 20% of families are presenting early enough for diagnosis.
It also found that despite years of awareness campaigns, 70% of those surveyed said they knew little or nothing about the condition.
