Dementia: The Basics

Anthea Innes, BA, MSc, PhD, is Professor of Dementia and Coles-Medlock Director of the Salford Institute for Dementia, University of Salford, UK. She is a social scientist who has specialised in researching the experiences of dementia and how to bring about change and improvements in dementia care for the last 25 years.Lesley Calvert lives with Alzheimer's disease and is an associate at the Salford Institute for Dementia, UK. She is a member of the local Dementia Champion group and a facilitator at the Open Doors Network in Salford; she is also part of the 3 Nations Dementia Working Group.Gail Bowker has been an unpaid carer since 2010. She is a strong voice in the dementia arena in Greater Manchester, UK, and sits on several local strategic boards and committees. She is a passionate advocate for carers’ rights.

• Section 1 Introduction ; 1. Introduction ; 2. Pre-diagnosis ; 3. Diagnosis of dementia ; Section 2 Introduction ; 4. Post-diagnostic support for the person living with dementia ; 5. The post-diagnostic support needs of family members and friends who provide care and support ; 6. Supporting the person living with dementia and their care supporter together ; Section 3 Introduction ; 7. Care need transitions in the journey with dementia ; 8. End of Life Care ; 9. Conclusion

From the first stages of ‘something doesn’t seem quite right’ through to diagnosis, care and support and finally to end of life, dementia can be a frightening and bewildering experience for the person with dementia and for friends, family, carers and everyone affected by this life changing condition. This book, a unique collaboration between academia and lived experience achieves its aim to enhance our understanding, challenge our thinking and provide practical help. The real life portraits described by Lesley and Gail are personal, brave and compelling. Their determination to respect the wishes of those they love is inspiring and Anthea Innes’ deep commitment to designing services which truly reflect the needs of people living with dementia shines through. Rt Hon Hazel Blears, Alzheimer’s Ambassador