AN OVERHAUL of mental health services for older people is planned as the NHS looks to modernise the treatment of people with dementia.

Worcestershire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust which runs mental health services for older people is now looking at transforming day care for older people in the county.

Under the plans staff would transfer from day hospitals to community mental health teams but continue to provide assessment, treatment and therapy at different locations across the county, including day centres.

A report discussed by the trust board at Hill Crest in Redditch suggested that the best option for the trust is to develop the role of Community Mental Health Teams rather than using traditional day hospital services, even though they were popular with many older people, or introduce new specialist teams.

The CMHTs would have an increased role in helping older people cope with forgetfulness, anxiety and depression and provide support to those who care for older people.

Staff from the day hospital service would also be brought into CMHTs to strengthen them but the trust wants to see more emphasis on specific goals for patients and therapy which is proven scientifically to benefit older people.

Dr Ros Keeton said early intervention was important in treating people with dementia rather than trying to manage their symptoms at the ‘end point’.

The plans will be further discussed at a primary care trust contracting meeting when more details are expected to be finalised.