The Greek Dementia Helpline: experience and impact.

Abstract

During the Covid-19 pandemic in Greece, quality and quantity of support for people with dementia and their family carers varies widely and depends on the availability of resourses in different areas. The pandemic forced an urgent transition from face-to-face to telehealth services. The Greek Dementia Helpline 1102 was launched on February 2021, as a telephone service staffed by psychologists, neurologists and social workers with expertise in dementia care and is provided by Athens Alzheimer Association. The aim of the helpline is to offer counseling about dementia, to support and guide family carers and link them with community support services and programs. Between February 2021 and October 2021, more than 8000 people have called Helpline 1102 and more than 2500 people have contacted the line via email or live webchat (68% women and 32% men). The beneficiaries of the helpline were family carers (75%), health professionals (15%) and lay people requesting information on dementia prevention, care and treatment. Especially, carers were interested in availability of dementia services in different areas of Greece, disability allowances, legal issues, and how to choose residential homes or paid caregivers. After using the Dementia Helpline, carers have reported increased sensitivity to the challenges faced by their loved ones with dementia, and more able to make the needed adjustments to their care-giving task. Dementia Helpline 1102 provides dementia carers with a reliable a framework through the implementation of appropriate counseling by trustworthy healthcare professionals. Athens Alzheimer Association offers this service free of charge.