JCPSLP
Volume 16, Number 2 2014
107
Resource review
commitment to good quality care and services, 4) caregiver
support, 5) workforce training, 6) prevention, and 7)
research, showing that while the challenges are significant,
with coordinated action they can be managed.
The first three chapters provide an overview of dementia,
its epidemiology and global prevalence, and current
dementia policy and action plans from around the world.
The figures are staggering, estimating 7.7 million new
cases of dementia each year, with rising global economic
burden. Insight is provided into how different countries
have responded to the problem, along with the ethical and
human rights issues that should underpin dementia policy
and legislation. The need for strategies to support inclusion,
choice and supported decision-making for people with
dementia is highlighted, an area where speech pathology
could actively contribute.
Chapters 4 and 5 outline current health and social
care systems, available clinical guidelines, and service
innovations for people with dementia and their families. This
snapshot provides food for thought, showcasing targeted
programs from around the world across primary health,
community, residential, and palliative care. The breadth
and depth of the current situation reveal the need for
multidisciplinary action, along with the role of innovation in
training and education to strengthen health systems. The
critical need to address stigma is emphasised to ensure
that individuals with dementia and their caregivers access
the services available to them.
In chapter 6, public understanding of dementia, the
impact of stigma, and the need for global awareness raising
campaigns are discussed. It is again inspiring to read about
the campaigns and initiatives underway globally. The final
chapter presents a strong and well-articulated call to action.
While the limitations of the report are noted (e.g., few
countries surveyed, little attention paid to young-onset
dementia), it is an interesting and informative resource.
It provides the impetus for making dementia a priority, to
bridge the gap between policy and practice, and to improve
the everyday lives of people living with dementia and their
families. The time to act is now.
References
Editorial. (2012). Public health planning for dementia must
start now.
The Lancet Neurology, 11
, 477.
Rimmer, E., Stave, C., Sganga, A., & O’Connell, B.
(2005). Implications of the facing dementia survey for
policy makers and third-party organisations across Europe.
International Journal of Clinical Practice
,
59
(s146), 34–34.
World Health Organization. (2012).
Dementia: A public
health priority
. Geneva: Author.
World Health Organization. (2012).
Dementia: A public
health priority
. Geneva: Author. Available from:
Jade Cartwright
Speech pathology resources
Dementia has been identified as one of the most significant
health care challenges of the 21st century (Rimmer, Stave,
Sganga, & O’Connell, 2005). The speech pathology profession
in Australia has been largely absent from dementia
campaigning underway, yet has significant potential to help
address the impact of dementia and improve quality of
care. This is dependent on a strong understanding of
current dementia policy and priority areas for action.
Dementia: A public health priority
is a practical resource
for speech pathologists seeking to understand the
enormity of the challenges associated with dementia
and to inform the development of local action plans.
Published in 2012, it is the first report by the World Health
Organization (WHO) dedicated to dementia, developed in
partnership with Alzhiemer’s Disease International (ADI).
It provides a selected review of relevant evidence, policy
and current practices (Editorial, 2012), placing pressure on
governments and decision-makers to respond proactively.
The report is structured around identified priority areas
including 1) raising awareness, 2) timely diagnosis, 3)
