Implementation of the measure 4.3.8 – National Dementia Strategy

Background

As part of the National Dementia Strategy, the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) (with the Witten site taking the lead), together with representatives of professional societies (German Society of Nursing Science, DEGAM, German Alzheimer Society) and with the support of the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMFSFJ), was responsible for implementing Measure 4.3.8 – health services research focusing on relatives of people with dementia.

Project Aims

An edited book (German) provides a comprehensive overview of current research findings on informal carers of people with dementia and describes examples of good practice.

Methods

A conceptual team was formed consisting of DZNE researchers, representatives of the above-mentioned professional societies, and the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs. This team worked on the content development of the edited book and identified researchers in Germany whose findings could contribute to the topic. Overall, researchers from various disciplines across Germany were invited to contribute their work to the planned collection.

Results

The edited book (German), produced in joint editorship with the German Alzheimer Society, covers research findings on a wide range of questions concerning relatives of people with dementia. In a total of 29 chapters, both the challenges faced by relatives from different perspectives and evidence-based support services are presented. The volume concludes with recommendations for action addressed to researchers, practitioners working in care services, as well as social and political decision-makers, with the aim of improving existing care services and promoting the health and wellbeing of caring family members.

Publication

The e-book (German) can be downloaded free of charge.