dementia

People who have been diagnosed with dementia, or who are worried that they may develop dementia in the future, are often concerned about how decisions regarding their medical treatment might be made should they lose the ability to decide for themselves. They may fear that life-sustaining or life-prolonging treatments would be provided long after they were able to achieve a level of recovery, length of life or quality of life that the person would at present consider to be acceptable or tolerable.

Briefly reports on the findings of a study which aimed to evaluate the effect of a video decision support tool on the preferences for future medical care in older people if they develop advanced dementia, and the stability of those preferences after six weeks.

UK Government strategy offering a strategic framework within which local services in England can make quality improvements to dementia services and tackle health inequalities. Practical advice, guidance and support for health and social care commissioners and providers in the planning, development and monitoring of services is provided.

Document setting out the governance arrangements for the UK Government's dementia strategy for England at national, regional and local level over a five-year period.

This BBC radio programme looks at how the number of people diagnosed with dementia in the UK has reached 700,000, and how, often close relatives step into the role of being the main carer.

Julie Heathcote is a trainer in reminiscence-based approaches for the Alzheimer’s Society which are proving to be successful in helping both carers and the cared for to spend more quality time together. Felicity Finch joins her with a group of carers at The Lowestoft and Waveney branch of the society where she ran a Reminiscence Activities session.

In general, the pain relief needs of older people with dementia are not adequately met. The aim of this research was to determine whether the same unsatisfactory treatment also applies to people with learning difficulties who have dementia and, if so, to make recommendations for improving practice. The research team was based at the Centre for Research on Families and Relationships, University of Edinburgh, and the Dementia Services Development Centre, University of Stirling.

Report presenting the findings of the UK assessment trial of Enable, a three year longitudinal study looking at the feasibility of enabling devices and the socio-economic costs of making technology available to enhance the quality of life of dementia sufferers and their carers.

This resource has been produced by Down's Syndrome Scotland and provides advice on food and eating for people with dementia.

The Alzheimer's Society is the UK's leading care and research charity for people with dementia, their families and carers. They produce information and advice sheets to support those affected by dementia. This information sheet explains that if a person is confused or has dementia and needs support, their local authority social services department should carry out a community care assessment. If this assessment shows that the person needs certain services, the local authority has a duty to ensure that these services are provided.

This booklet, produced by the Mental Health Foundation, is for anyone who has become, or thinks they may become a carer for someone with dementia. This booklet explains some of the basic facts about dementia, gives ideas on where to get practical and emotional support, offers advice on how to plan for the future, and provides some tips on caring for people with dementia. Importantly, it also suggests some ways carers can look after themselves while they are caring. And finally, it recommends sources of further information and help.