1. The Challenge of Dementia
Jackie O’Toole RPN, MSc (dementia)

2. Overview
The objective of my presentation is to reflect on the complexities of dementia through these considerations:
Information around dementia
Best practice in dementia care
What is needed to provide a person- centred approach in this area

3. Information
Over past five years have we become more informed about dementia
We have listened to the individual on a dementia journey and learned about his/her lived experience
We have gained a greater understanding about the workings of the brain
We realise that the ‘personhood’ (or essence) of the person remains
We know that individuals on a dementia journey retain human capabilities; the ability to feel emotions, to make choices and to live a wonderful quality of life

4. The Human Brain We know that the brain has two hemispheres
Each hemisphere contains 5 lobes
Each with differing functions
Currently there are different forms of dementia with Alzheimer’s Disease being the most common form.
The clinical presentation of the differing dementia is caused by the damage to the particular area of the brain.

5. What is Alzheimer’sdisease

6. Dementia in Ireland

7. As people live longer, more can expect to develop dementia

9. Irish National Dementia Strategy
Better Awareness and Understanding
Timely diagnosis and intervention
Education and training for GPs
Guidance around medication management
Education around modifiable lifestyle risk factors
Integrated services, supports and care for PWD
Training and Education
Leadership

10. Independent and Assisted Living
Retaining independence for as long as possible
Suitable housing for assisted living
Adaptations within current residential setting:
signage, re-arrangement of furniture, removal
of hazards
Appropriate use of assistive technology

11. Assistive Technology –atdementia.org.uk
Prompting
Date and Time
Item Locator
Medication reminder
Voice Reminder
Signs and Notices
Activity Assessment and activity guides
Leisure
Computer aids
TV, Radio
Books, Photographs
Reminiscence items
Games

12. Assistive Technology –atdementia.org.uk
Communication
Intercoms
Telephones
Other communication aids
Safety
Personal alarms
Pressure mats and cushions
Monitors that measure gas, smoke, lighting, temperature, flood
Fall and wandering detectors

13. Living in Own Community

14. Dementia Friendly Ireland

15. Best Practice in Dementia

16. What do we need to do?

17. Kitwood-Psychological Needs Ref: Dementia Reconsidered 1997

18. Best practice Early diagnosis Medication Cognitive Stimulation Therapy
Maintaining life pattern
Continuance of past hobbies and interests for as long as possible
Supportive and empowering relationships
Communication –no contradicting, correcting or lengthy questions
Understanding around behaviour as form of communication

19. What is needed? Recognition of the value of human life
Recognition of retained abilities rather than emphasis on deficits
Gathering of Individual’s life-story material
Acceptance of clinical presentation from those living around us
Vital for individual to feel respected
Opportunities to live a wonderful quality of life

20. What is needed? Supportive care from home-care providers
Respite care – day centres, short residential stays
Care for the carers
Sharing of the care
Contact GP, PHN if you are concerned about failing memory
Contact with the voluntary agencies;

21. What is needed? Appropriate residential care when time is right
Residential care that caters for spiritual needs
Suitable activities and stimulation
Continuity of connection with religious community