The term ‘dementia’ covers a range of progressive conditions that affect the brain. Mainly affecting (but not limited to) older people, there are more than 200 different sub-types with common symptoms including memory loss, confusion and problems with speech and communication. With an ageing population, it has become an increasingly important health problem, and estimates suggest there are up to 850,000 people in the UK living with dementia.
We’ve collated a selection of articles from our archive focusing on dementia, sharing key information and best practice guidance:
Caring for older people with dementia in the emergency department
Admission to an emergency department (ED) may expose the older person with dementia to a range of negative consequences, including a deterioration in their behavioural symptoms. The authors conducted a review of primary research…
Alternatives to (antipsychotic) medication in people with dementia
Antipsychotic medications are often prescribed for people living with dementia who display aggression or signs of psychosis (Alzheimer's Society, 2017)—however, it is estimated that these drugs are inappropriate for about two-thirds of these people…
Postoperative cognitive decline: the nurse's role in identifying this underestimated and misinterpreted condition
General improvements in living conditions have led to a great increase in the number of elderly patients and it is estimated that people over 65 years of age will make up the largest proportion of the surgical population by 2020 (Vaupel, 2010). This group is more vulnerable…
Considerations in wound care of patients living with dementia
The prevalence of wounds and comorbidities such as dementia increases with age. Given projected rises in population ageing and growth, the likelihood of encountering an overlap in these conditions in clinical practice has increased…
Avoiding hospital readmission of a person with dementia
When a person with dementia is admitted to hospital, they are usually there seeking an improvement in their health related to a condition that is not connected to their dementia. However, the confusion and distress that can result from a hospital…
If you found these articles helpful then there are thousands more in our archive covering clinical topics from diabetes to respiratory care in just as much detail, as well as professional guidance on all areas of practice and your wider role.