Published online:
21 November 2013
This publication provides DHBs and the health and social support sectors with a guide for developing their dementia care pathways. The framework has three guiding principles:
- following a person-centred and people-directed approach
- providing accessible, proactive and integrated services that are flexible to meet a variety of needs
- developing the highest possible standard of care.
The publication also highlights five key elements for effective dementia care:
- awareness and risk reduction
- assessment, diagnosis, early intervention and ongoing support
- living well
- meeting challenges to maximise wellbeing
- end of life.
Overarching factors that must be considered across all five key elements are also identified:
- education and training for people with dementia and their families and whānau
- workforce education and training
- readily accessible information
- governance
- family and whānau support
- culturally appropriate services
- funding streams
- monitoring and evaluation
- advocacy.