Clinical guidelines for dementia

Clinical practice guidelines and principles of care for people with dementia

In February 2016, Australia’s first Clinical practice guidelines and principles of care for people with dementia were released.

Dementia is the second leading cause of death in Australia with 1.2 million Australians involved in their care. The cost of dementia on the health and aged care systems is calculated to be at least $4.9 billion per annum.

National clinical guidelines for care of people with dementia provide health professionals and carers in primary care, aged care and hospital settings with access to recommendations reflecting current evidence on best practice dementia care.

Clinical practice guidelines and principles of care for people with dementia: Recommendations contain 109 recommendations that health and aged care staff can apply in their workplaces while also responding to the needs and preferences of the person with dementia and their carer(s) and family.

Consumer companion guide

A consumer companion guide entitled Diagnosis, treatment and care for people with dementia: A consumer companion guide has been developed for members of the public to complement the Clinical Practice Guidelines and Principles of Care for People with Dementia.

Working closely with consumers ensured this resource uses accessible language to provide practical guidance about important aspects of the clinical practice guidelines for consumers living with dementia and will allow consumers to be fully informed when being investigated or treated for possible or diagnosed dementia.