Resources

There is no doubt that families affected by dementia have faced many new challenges as a result of Covid-19. The suspension and closure of support services, enforced lockdown and changes to important daily routines have influenced the way in which families affected by dementia have gained support. Health and social care services have recognised the need to adapt by incorporating telehealth as a substitute to existing care models; however, some have faced challenges in providing such care to this patient population. This paper explores the use of telephone helplines as a means of support for families affected by dementia during Covid-19, commenting on the advantages and disadvantages and reflecting on the experience of a dementia specialist helpline nurse.

The increase in dementia diagnosis and the recognised negative outcomes of acute hospital admission for this patient group, has led to a call for improved community care for people with dementia and their families. Primary care organisations are now exploring ways in which to provide high quality dementia care from peri-diagnosis through to end of life. Here, Emily Oliver, consultant Admiral Nurse and Victoria Lyons, senior consultant Admiral Nurse, explain how Dementia UK is supporting primary care networks (PCNs) to do this through the provision of Admiral Nurses.

(Emily Oliver: emily.oliver@dementiauk.org, @emilyoliverdem; Victoria Lyons: victoria.lyons@dementiauk.org, @viclyons)