My name is not dementia: literature review

Author:
ALZHEIMER'S SOCIETY
Publisher:
Alzheimer's Society
Publication year:
2010
Pagination:
54p., bibliog.
Place of publication:
London

This substantial literature review forms part of an Alzheimer’s Society project aimed at developing key quality of life indictors for people with a diagnosis of dementia that draw directly on their own experiences and views. In the process of reviewing the literature the authors conclude that as yet very little is known about quality of life for those suffering from dementia. The perspective of the person with dementia has been omitted or ignored compared to more formal, theoretical and medical perspectives. Disease orientated measures are not has helpful as once thought, in particular the assumption that dementia inevitably results in poor quality of life from the patient’s perspective. The evidence reviewed suggests that quality of life is not just multi-dimensional; it is also multi-perspectival. It is unlikely that a single instrument could be helpful, the review points to the need for a more dynamic approach. Many quality of life factors are similar to those important to the rest of the population; social relationships, psychological well-being, independence and financial security. Factors which have more impact in dementia sufferers include, being of use and giving meaning to life, security and privacy, and self determination. Like any other population group, this one is heterogeneous, in terms of race, class, gender and sexuality. These are factors which will impact on the individual experience and approaches to assessing quality of life will need to engage with and reflect this diversity.

Subject terms:
literature reviews, quality of life, user views, Alzheimers disease, dementia, diversity;
Content type:
research review
Location(s):
United Kingdom
Link:
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