Younger Onset Dementia: A Review of the Literature to Inform Service Development. (December 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sansoni, Janet; Duncan, Cathy; Grootemaat, Pamela; Capell, Jacquelin; Samsa, Peter; Westera, Anita
• Is Part Of: American journal of Alzheimer's disease & other dementias. Volume 31:Number 8(2016)
• Page Start: 693
• Page End: 705
• Publication Date: 2016-12
• Subjects: younger onset dementia -- care and service requirements -- experience of younger onset dementia -- epidemiological estimates; Alzheimer's disease -- Periodicals; Dementia -- Periodicals; Alzheimer's disease -- Patients -- Care -- United States -- Periodicals; 616.83
• DOI: 10.1177/1533317515619481
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1533-3175

Abstract

This literature review focused on the experience, care, and service requirements of people with younger onset dementia. Systematic searches of 10 relevant bibliographic databases and a rigorous examination of the literature from nonacademic sources were undertaken. Searches identified 304 articles assessed for relevance and level of evidence, of which 74% were academic literature. The review identified the need for (1) more timely and accurate diagnosis and increased support immediately following diagnosis; (2) more individually tailored services addressing life cycle issues; (3) examination of the service needs of those living alone; (4) more systematic evaluation of services and programs; (5) further examination of service utilization, costs of illness, and cost effectiveness; and (6) current Australian clinical surveys to estimate prevalence, incidence, and survival rates. Although previous research has identified important service issues, there is a need for further studies with stronger research designs and consideration of the control of potentially confounding factors.