Background:
Utilisation of intervention programmes and services for Persons with Dementia
(PWD) has been generally modest despite the growing numbers. One reason has been the lack of
knowledge about dementia and information on such services.
Objective:
We sought to close this gap by providing caregivers with an information session about
dementia and the importance and availability of related services. We explored the uptake of intervention
programmes and services and reasons for non-uptake thereafter.
Methods:
Two hundred and seventy-five PWD and caregiver dyads attended the Dyad Education and
Empowerment Programme (DEEP). At the DEEP, while caregivers underwent an information session,
PWD were assessed by a multidisciplinary team on their need and suitability for programmes and
services such as daycare, cognitive engagement programmes and physical rehabilitation. The dyads then
received individualized recommendations on the appropriate services, if any. Follow-up through medical
records review and phone calls was conducted one month after DEEP to ascertain if the dyads had acted
upon the recommendations and if not, what difficulties they encountered.
Results:
One hundred and eleven PWD received recommendations, of which 40 (36.0%) agreed and
enrolled in the services while 71 (64%) declined. Thematic analysis of the reasons for non-uptake
revealed 3 themes: PWD-related factors (e.g., refusal, functional improvement or decline), caregiverrelated
factors (adequacy of care at home, other care arrangements), and service-related factors (e.g.,
cost, timing).
Conclusion:
Despite adequate information, there are other reasons for non-uptake of dementia- related
services, some of which should be addressed to improve service updates and to provide better care for
PWD.
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