Challenges Faced by Inmates with Dementia and Measures to Support Them During and After Incarceration

Question:

Ms Usha Chandradas: To ask the Minister for Home Affairs (a) what are the challenges faced by (i) inmates with dementia during their incarceration and (ii) prisons in managing and accommodating such inmates; (b) how are these challenges being addressed; and (c) what measures and initiatives are available during imprisonment and after the release of such inmates to (i) support them in their reintegration into society and (ii) assist their families in the process, with the aim of reducing the risk of re-offending.

Answer:

Assoc Prof Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of National Development:

1. Sir, inmates with dementia face similar challenges as persons living with dementia in the community. For example, they may find it difficult to remember events, communicate with others, and carry out daily tasks.

2. SPS calibrates the support for each inmate based on their individual needs, including the severity of their dementia. They receive specialist outpatient medical care for their dementia at the Institute of Mental Health and Changi General Hospital, and undergo regular follow-ups as required. They will be housed at the Complex Medical Centre of the prison if they require close monitoring by medical staff.

3. All inmates, including those with dementia, can attend programmes aimed at strengthening family relations. Families of inmates with dementia who require assistance can also approach SPS’s Family Resource Centres (FRCs) which are located at the Prison Link Centre. The FRCs work with the Ministry of Social and Family Development and community partners to look into the needs of the inmates and their family.

4. Inmates with dementia who lack family support and require long-term residential care, can be referred to nursing homes or welfare homes through the Agency for Integrated Care, upon their release.