Dementia in the context of disability

Patients and caregivers often associate dementia with devastation and a loss of productive contribution to society. People with dementia are often depicted as confused individuals struggling through embarrassing episodes, followed by a loss of independence. The burden and devastation of the diagnosis on the families of people with dementia is exacerbated by their assumption of the role of caregiver with inadequate preparation or training. Disability scholars, in contrast, offer physical and occupational therapists a nontragic view of disability that recognizes the importance of countering the stigma and discrimination that too often accompany dementia. This case example of a woman diagnosed with dementia provides insight into the negative impact of these tragic, dependent views of dementia throughout and following the diagnosis process. Viewing her experiences through the lens of disability scholarship can increase awareness and improve the quality of care on the part of both therapists and family caregivers

Understanding Resource Needs of Persons with Dementia and Their Caregivers

The purpose of this study was to understand the lived experiences of family caregivers of persons with dementia in accessing resources as the disease progresses, using four focus groups. Findings indicate differences in caregiver needs by stage of dementia of the care recipient. Service professionals noted family-level dynamics as possibly hindering care and voiced concern with limited mental health services. The need to educate caregivers on the scope of available services and applicable information was clear