Summary

Dementia is a group of symptoms associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning. It is progressive, meaning that symptoms may be relatively mild at first but get worse over time.

Dementia is caused by damage to the nerve cells in the brain. Nerve cells carry messages between different parts of the brain, and to other parts of the body. As more nerve cells are damaged, the brain becomes less able to work properly, causing the symptoms of dementia.

There are many different types of dementia, the most common being Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of dementia include:

• Memory loss
• Confusion
• Difficulty doing daily tasks
• Problems with language and understanding
• Changes in behaviour or mood

Care pathways

This pathway is designed to ensure patients with a diagnosis of dementia have a regularly updated care plan, and promote optimum disease control.

Patients with dementia are recalled by Care Coordinators.

1️⃣ Carry out Care Coordinator review

1. Contact the patient, either booking an appointment in the future, or carry out the care plan review
2. Ask if the patient would like a GP review, and book if needed
3. Use the clinical template: ‘Penrose Health - Dementia’ to complete the review
• Ensure carer details are up to date, and consent from the patient is recorded
4. Check if a recent care plan has been completed. See 📝Personalised Care & Support Plan (PCSP)
5. If there are any issues highlighted, book a GP appointment, otherwise ensure the review is coded as complete