ABSTRACT

The care of most people with dementia takes place in the community, as approximately four out of five people with dementia are living outside hospital or residential settings. Unlike other terminal illnesses, people suffering from dementia not only undergo physical changes, but also changes in personality and intellect. Some of the reactions to caregiver burden can be seen as grief reactions to the gradual and fluctuating loss of their loved one. If a couple have been extremely close, that person is losing their companion, confidante, lover and friend. Carers have different ways of coping with caring. Physical dependence is better tolerated by families than the challenge and strain of disruptive behaviour. Physical and emotional abuse of older people by carers is an under-researched area. To summarise, it should be possible for a package of care to be arranged which makes use of available services and takes into account the needs of both the carer and the person with dementia.