Practitioners and Services Involved with Caring for Individuals with Dementia

Practitioners and Services Involved with Caring for Individuals with Dementia

General Practitioners (GPs)

GPs play a central role in diagnosing dementia and providing care and ongoing support.
They consider the person’s symptoms and arrange the necessary tests or referrals.
Regular check-ups, medication reviews, and monitoring of the condition are all the responsibilities of a GP.

Dementia Specialist Nurses

Dementia Specialist Nurses offer support, advice, and information to both sufferers and their carers.
Their role includes explaining medication, recommending care strategies, and conducting cognitive assessments.
They often act as case managers, coordinating with other healthcare professionals and services.

Social Workers

Social Workers help individuals and families navigate the complexities of social care.
They can assist with financial matters (like funding for care), connect families to local community resources, and advocate for the rights of the person with dementia.
They also provide emotional support and counselling services.

Occupational Therapists

Occupational Therapists exist to help individuals maintain independence and continue doing everyday activities safely.
They provide practical advice on environmental adaptations in the home to minimise risks and increase ease of daily tasks.
In particular, they focus on dealing with memory problems and coordination difficulties.

Psychiatrists/Psychologists

Psychiatrists and Psychologists deal with the mental health aspects related to dementia.
They diagnose and treat anxiety, depression or other mental health problems that may accompany dementia.
These specialists also offer therapy tailored to individuals with dementia, such as cognitive behavioural therapy or reminiscence therapy.

Memory Clinics

Memory Clinics are multi-disciplinary teams providing assessment, diagnosis, and ongoing support for those with memory problems.
They involve a variety of healthcare professionals including psychiatrists, psychologists, dementia nurses, and occupational therapists.
Memory clinics often provide post-diagnostic support and interventions, such as cognitive stimulation therapy or advice on maintaining physical health.

Community Care Services

Community care services provide practical support and care in the community or home setting.
This often includes home helps, care workers, or meals on wheels services, all of which help sustain a person with dementia’s quality of life.
They also comprise dementia-friendly initiatives and social groups, offering both socialisation and support.

Residential and Nursing Care Homes

Residential and Nursing Care Homes provide full-time support and care, especially for those in the later stages of dementia.
Care home staff provide personal care (e.g., bathing, feeding), medical care, and social activities.
Staff should be trained in dementia care, providing an environment that is safe, welcoming, and nurturing, which respects the individual’s needs and rights.