Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book looks at the concept of stress and its effects upon the person living with a dementia and upon the functional systems of care homes, and how we as carers can adapt ourselves to get the best out of both. It examines the different models of modern dementia care and introduces the theory of whole-person-focused caring - the so-called person-centred approach - along with positive and negative aspects of practice in dementia care and an overview of various therapeutic interventions. The chapter discusses the psychological and social domains of dementia and explores the progression of therapies towards modern dementia care, and the principles that underpin care today. It focuses on the role of stress and specifically at reactions to it by those living with a dementia, as well as at adaptive nursing models.