Carers Guide to Dementia

Carers Guide to Dementia

Prevalance

Dementia is a disease of the brain which is progressive in nature.  It is characterised by alterations in reasoning, memory, comprehension, problem-solving, or attention.  It is a disease which is seen more in older people but is not a part of the normal ageing process [NHS Choices 2012]. 750,000 people are living with dimentia in the UK at present.  This figure is expected to double over the next 30 years. 25% of hospital bed are occupied by an individual over the age of 65 with dementia. [CSP (2011). Physiotherapy works: Dementia Care]. 

Learning Outcomes

'After using this resource family members and carers should be able to; 1. Recall the different stages of dementia and recognise where your loved one is within this model.
2. Differentiate between the ‘normal’ aging process and the typical signs and symptoms of dementia.
3. Recognize other conditions that may co-exist alongside dementia.
4. Identify strategies and techniques that enable you to help your loved one in optimizing their independence and quality of life.
5. Identify dementia services and resources that would be appropriate for different stages of dementia.
6. Relate the information in this resource to their individual circumstances.

Recognition

What to expect

What Physiotherapy can offer

What can you do

Where can you get help