SUPPORTING THE SUPPORTERS: WORKING WITH THE RELATIVES OF PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA

摘要

For the elderly with dementia their families remain the most frequent supporters, despite recent changes in the style of family life. The influence on the care they provide of such factors as acceptance of diagnosis, previous relationships, the patient's deteriorating condition, toleration of risk and acceptance of alternative care is discussed. Appropriate support for families will enable them to care more effectively and with less damage to themselves.