The Irish Experience: Partnerships, Participation and Early Assessment of Dementia

In Ireland, most people living with dementia reside in the community and primarily rely on family carers. Recognising this, national health care services are reorienting to provide ‘the right care, at the right time, in the right place. This shift has necessitated interprofessional and interagency collaboration grounded in grassroots mobilisation of partnerships and participation across settings, organisations, and healthcare staff. We showcase two case studies from Ireland highlighting best practices for supporting individuals with dementia and their families within the community, with a focus on inclusivity. A key insight from these case studies is the importance of considering the views and preferences of people with dementia are considered in every aspect of practice and research that pertains to their condition and well-being. Collaborative practice can significantly enhance the healthcare experience of individuals with dementia. While vital at all stages of dementia care, interprofessional and interagency collaboration is particularly crucial during the diagnostic and early post-diagnosis phases to ensure timely and accurate diagnosis to enact the Irish Health Service Executive's Dementia Model of Care. This chapter emphasises that interprofessional and interagency collaboration is essential for addressing the challenges of dementia care in Ireland, promoting a person-centred approach, and fostering dementia-inclusive communities.