Dementia

Dementia is an umbrella term that describes a range of progressive conditions affecting the brain. As a person’s age increases, so does the risk of them developing dementia. It is estimated that by 2025 more than one million people will be living with dementia in the UK. Dementia is therefore an increasingly important topic in the nursing care of older people.

In recognition of Dementia Action Week, which takes place 17-23 May, we have grouped together articles from RCNi’s archive showcasing the nursing role in caring for older people with dementia.

While the articles identify the breadth and scope of nursing practice, what unites them is a recognition that every person living with dementia is unique and should be cared for as an individual. We hope the articles will support you to deliver person-centred dementia care.

Please contact Lisa Berry, editor of Nursing Older People, at lisa.berry@rcni.com with your comments, suggestions or feedback and help raise awareness of our content by sharing this resource on social media using the weblink rcni.com/dementia


A pioneering nursing role: consultant Admiral Nurse for frailty

Kerry Lyons talks about her post in Dementia UK’s first frailty-specific nursing service

Are therapeutic untruths acceptable when talking to a person with a learning disability?

While no one wants to tell direct lies, therapeutic untruths can be beneficial
Open access

Dementia in care homes: increasing the diagnosis rate among undiagnosed residents

How a project created a transferable model of good practice on dementia assessments of care...
Free

Dementia diagnosis rates: nurses can make a difference

An accurate diagnosis even at advanced stages can improve people’s quality of life

Ethical administration of as required antipsychotics to people with dementia in care...

Ethical theories and frameworks can help nurses to analyse the potential benefits and risks
Free

How to identify and support people with dementia

Our podcast guests talk about diagnosis, signposting care available, and how hobbies can help

What is the difference between delirium and dementia?

A collateral history is crucial in distinguishing between the conditions

Dementia diagnosis in care homes: how to find undetected cases

A project to send specialist nurses to assess care home residents shows promising results

Dementia: recognition and assessment in primary healthcare settings

Similarities between early symptoms of dementia and other health conditions

Reducing and managing dementia risk in primary care

The importance of understanding non-modifiable and modifiable risk factors for dementia

Dementia and comorbid cancer: challenges and implications for nursing practice

This case study details care, pain assessment, decision-making and diagnosis challenges
Free

Why dementia training should be mandatory for nursing students

Improving education can ensure parity of care for vulnerable older people

Practical advice and guidance on antipsychotic medication in dementia

New toolkit aids decision-making when managing distress in people with dementia

Assessing and managing agitation as a symptom of dementia

Interventions for agitation in dementia, often confused with emotion or unmet needs

Pain assessment and management for people with dementia in the community

Enhance your awareness of various pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions

Dementia: how to tailor nursing care to the needs of patients and their families

Your guide to common types of dementia and compassionate and effective symptom management

How to spot the signs of dementia earlier in people with learning disabilities

What nurses and carers need to know about early diagnosis and support services

Person-centred communication with people with dementia

Practical approaches to supporting person-centred communication with people with dementia

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