A better understanding of Dementia

Aim

Objectives

This article meets GDC development outcomes A, C and D.

Dementia is never easy to write about, nor any easier to read. This article will explore the different types of dementia, the role the whole team can play and what interventions we could consider implementing for patients. Though a difficult subject, there are positives we can draw upon to help, some small touches that can make all the difference.

Dementia is an umbrella term that covers multiple different types of this disease. The commonality is a decline in cognitive function beyond what can be expected by ageing which currently affects 55m people worldwide (WHO, 2022). Each type of dementia impairs neurones from working, these help us with our walking, talking and balance (Dementia UK, 2022). With so many people affected we will be seeing our patients suffering from this awful disease in practice regularly. The GDC principles are directly related to patient safety and working in their best interests, having a greater understanding of dementia supports this application.