DEMENTIA PROGRAMME EFFECTIVENESS IN LONG-TERM CARE

Abstract

Dementia programmes worked, but the reasons why were more difficult to establish. The programmes did not appear to modify the capacities of residents by slowing rates of decline. Dementia programmes provided specialist (non-personal care) staff focusing on the social and emotional needs of residents. These staff provided appropriate, targeted activities for residents with dementia, had a clearly defined role directed exclusively to these residents and felt directly responsible for them. Dementia programmes produced a system effect. They increased the capacity of hostels to care for residents with dementia for longer periods, before admission to a nursing home.