Person-centered integrated dementia care: the way forward?

Objectives: In Singapore, with the number of elderly with dementia are expected to increase, improving the ability of healthcare system to respond to the demand of dementia care in the elderly has become more imperative. This study sought to study existing dementia care programs and how integrated care models can be used in parallel to provide good dementia care for the future in Singapore. Methodology: A qualitative descriptive study, which includes comprehensive literature search from, computerized databases; manual searches, and key informants were used. Result: Several existing programs ranging from educational to diagnostic programs were already implemented in Singapore. However, most programs were rolled out to meet specific isolated functions or aims. These programs are rather loosely affiliated. Users do not know specifically how or where to navigate the system and bring about much inconvenience and confusion. Conclusion: Domains of dementia care interaction include: symptom diagnosis, management, medication, support service linkage, and social support. The integration of health and social care provides a great opportunity to create a structures and strategic approach to dementia care. With the carefully crafted integrated care program, people with dementia and their career can achieve a truly good quality of life.