This area includes models of service delivery, approaches to care, issues for carers, workforce capacity and skills to improve the care of people with dementia and their carers. Examples of research in this area include:
Clarke, A., Hopper, D., Horner, B. and Cahill, M. Promoting health and physical activity for carers and people with dementia. Alzheimer's Australia Research Limited. (2005)
Outcome:
The pilot program was offered to early to intermediate stage people with dementia and their support person. It engaged people with dementia in the community to optimise their quality of living through improving their level of physical wellbeing and social activity. It also lessened the burden of care, and improved the quality of life and health and wellbeing of the carers.
Horner, B. and Grenade, L. Evaluation of the National Dementia Support Program, Alzheimer's Australia. (2006)
Outcome: - in progress
Horner, B., Todorovich, N., Stewart, J., Rose, S. and Van Clarke, D. Dementia care in the acute care setting. Interagency Mental Health and the Elderly Research Group, Albany. (2005-06)
Outcome:
Recommendations and strategies that will improve outcomes for people with dementia and their carers. Family carers can be involved in an integrated approach to care and discharge planning. Education and awareness of staff can be improved with a focus on problem solving and care management.
Gribble, D., Nichols, P. and Horner, B. Pilot of an Acute Care Sector Dementia Training Package in selected hospitals in WA. (2005-07)
Outcome:
Staff across a range of hospitals have received training in the care of people with dementia in hospital. The outcomes of the pilot demonstrate the appropriateness of the training program, as well as identifying additional need for education across a range of areas.
Burton, J. and Grenade, L. Changing culture in a High Care dementia setting. (2005-07)
Outcome:
The organisation is increasing its capability to provide person-centred care within a high care environment, to improve outcomes for residents.
