Ageing and Mental health.

Dementia is primarily included in the branch of social services and mental health of the Government.

There are a number of programmes within the branches of social welfare, ageing, mental health and non-communicable disease management that are relevant for persons with dementia.

Dementia falls under the responsibility of two directorates in the Ministry of Health: The Directorate of Mental Health and the Directorate of Family Health.

Dementia is not primarily included in any sector in Jamaica. There is much overlap between the social services provided in Jamaica between, for example, the Ministry of Health and Wellness and the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (PIOJ, 2014). There is also overlap between the kinds of services that may be relevant or useful for persons living with dementia.

There are implications for the possible tailoring of policies, programmes, and infrastructure of either NCDs or Mental Health in the health sector, or in either Ageing or Disability in the Social Sector, which do not currently directly address dementia, to become the primary driver of dementia issues.

The question of the primary place for dementia in the governmental framework as of February 2019, requires review and consultation.

References:

Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ). (2014). Jamaica Social Protection Strategy. Available from: https://www.pioj.gov.jm/product/jamaica-social-protection-strategy/

Department of Mental Health – see part 4.01.02.

There are no specific programmes for dementia. Within health system institutions, AD and dementia are seen mostly as mental health issues and, therefore, would be seen within these departments or services.

Health.

Department of Social Development (DSD): Older persons programme (South African Older Person’s Forum (SAOPF)).

National Department of Health: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), disability and older persons (which include eye health and palliative care) and in the Mental Health section.