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


Devices promoting independence in people with dementia could lighten nurses’ workload

Imperial College scientists investigate technology that could transform individuals’ lives

A truly inspirational placement taught me about compassion and a love for life

I witnessed the kind of dedication I want to emulate in my own nursing career

Audio players project helps stimulate people with dementia

People with dementia are using simple music players to access audiobooks and radio/TV

Young-onset dementia: meeting the information needs of carers

Increased awareness of dementia is associated with its rising prevalence in an ageing...

‘Appreciative Friday’ helps show staff how much they are valued

Queen’s Nurse’s social media messages for staff and families caring for people with dementia

'Getting services right for people with frailty is a must'

Frailty and dementia matron Beverley Marriott wants an integrated health and social care...

Service provision for people in Scotland with an intellectual disability and dementia

Adherence to good practice guidelines for people with an intellectual disability and dementia

Cognitive decline: can diet be a preventive or treatment option?

Cognitive decline has been associated with and accepted as a consequence of ageing. Diets...

Obesity could raise risk of dementia

 A combination of greater BMI and waist-hip ratio may be a risk factor for brain atrophy

How to recognise and treat pain in someone with dementia

When nurses ‘think pain’ and take appropriate action, it can transform patients’ lives

How healthcare professionals in acute settings construct identities for people with...

Background Healthcare professionals working in acute settings lack education and training in...

Nurse highlights ‘gaping void’ in care for people with young-onset dementia

Fiona Chaâbane says services lack specific skills to meet needs of this patient group

Understanding quality of life and well-being for people living with advanced dementia

Aim To investigate the quality of life (QoL) and well-being of people living with advanced...

Watching Tom Cruise and Mr Bean could help people with dementia

Charity Dementia UK recommends films to improve mood and engagement

Ethical practice in dementia care

Case study examples of challenging ethical situations that might be encountered

‘Taking nursing to another level’

After an outstanding career in the NHS, Kim Badcock is as excited by nursing as ever

Is it safe to prescribe both benzodiazepines and opiate analgesics?

A study highlights the need for care in prescribing for older people with Alzheimer’s

Nurse-led dementia research team receives £4.7m to examine end of life care services

Joint lead of study says aim is to enhance person-centred care of people with dementia

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