Social protection of people with dementia in Hungary

Abstract

This paper presents the results of the study of main features and current state of social protection of people with dementia in Hungary. At present, the population of Hungary is rapidly aging and is decreasing quantitatively. Social and demographic changes as well as the increase of life expectancy affect the provision of social services for the population of Hungary. The aim of the paper is to provide an overview of social services delivered to persons with dimentia in Hungary. To achieve this aim the following tasks were defined as to be solved: to charcterise the organisation of social support for persons with dementia and the services provided. The study object − social policy of Hungary. The study subject − social services provided to the persons with dementia. The following research methods have been used: − theoretical − the secondary analysis of scientific-research sources on the problem under consideration has given the possibility to systematize and generalize the available data on current state of the problem; − empirical − observations and interviews with scholars and practical social workers have given an opportunity to analyse the Hungarian experience in social services provision to persons with dementia. The data gathered allowed to conclude, that in Hungary dementia is not considered to be among the social and healthcare priorities. In accordance with the Hungarian legislation, persons with dementia are not considered to be «people with disabilities» and therefore they are not eligible for financial or social benefits as provided to other persons with disabilities. Although the law provides for the state funding of normative day-care fees, daycare facilities are not available. Respite homes and long-term care institutions are very limited in number. State supported home-care is limited to the provision of meals at a low cost. Private institutions are inaccessible due to high costs. Adequacy, accessibility and availability of services in general do not respond to the needs of either people with dementia or the family carers.