Tenth Anniversary Celebration: Tallaght University Hospital Hosts Free Public Information Day
In celebration of its 10th Anniversary, the Institute of Memory & Cognition at Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) is hosting a free Information Day at Tallaght County Library on Tuesday, September 17th. This milestone event will showcase the groundbreaking work of the Institute, including Ireland’s first-ever Brain Health Clinic specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of dementia.
The Information Day is open to the public and will feature a series of informative talks by leading national experts in the field of memory and cognition. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the history and future plans of the Institute, as well as the importance of brain health and the supports available after a dementia diagnosis. The event will also include information stands from relevant organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland and the HSE’s Memory Technology Resource Room in Ballyfermot.
The Institute of Memory & Cognition at TUH has made significant strides over the past decade, providing a comprehensive five-day Interdisciplinary Geriatric-Neurology Memory Service that sees 400 new patients annually. Additionally, the Brain Health Clinic treats 200 patients each year, and the National Intellectual Disability Memory Service cares for 150 new patients annually. The Institute also houses the Cognitive Clinical Trials Unit at TUH, further advancing research and treatment options for memory-related conditions.
With a dedicated team of over 20 permanent staff members, the Institute operates in a truly interdisciplinary fashion, combining expertise in neurology, geriatric medicine, nursing, social work, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, physiotherapy, neuropsychology, and dietetics. This collaborative approach has been instrumental in the growth and success of the Institute, allowing for more accurate diagnoses, better treatments, and improved care for individuals living with memory problems and dementia.
Professor Seán Kennelly, Director of the Institute of Memory & Cognition at TUH, emphasizes the Institute’s commitment to providing exceptional care and support to patients. He notes the significant increase in new diagnoses over the years, highlighting the advancements in biomarker testing for Alzheimer’s disease. These biomarkers have revolutionized the diagnostic process, allowing for faster and more accurate results, ultimately leading to better outcomes for patients.
TUH CEO Lucy Nugent commends the dedication and expertise of the memory service team, led by Professor Kennelly, Dr. Fallon, and Dr. O’Dowd. Their collective efforts have propelled the Institute forward, enabling it to deliver top-notch care and services to patients in need. Nugent expresses pride in the growth and evolution of the Institute, emphasizing its continued focus on early diagnosis, innovative treatments, and compassionate care for individuals affected by memory-related conditions.
Since its inception, the Institute of Memory & Cognition at TUH has conducted over 5,000 outpatient appointments, with a significant portion of patients under the age of 65. This demographic trend underscores the importance of early detection and intervention for memory issues, particularly among younger individuals who may face challenges in accessing timely diagnoses. The average wait time for referrals to the clinic has been reduced to around four months, with urgent cases receiving attention even sooner.
As the Information Day approaches, the Institute looks forward to sharing its achievements and advancements with the public. This event serves as a testament to the Institute’s ongoing commitment to excellence in memory and cognition care, showcasing its dedication to improving the lives of individuals affected by memory-related conditions. Join us on September 17th at Tallaght County Library to learn more about the Institute’s groundbreaking work and the future of memory and cognition care in Ireland.