Legislation, Frameworks & Dementia
By Libbie Allan
Legislation
It is highly effective in the support of those living with dementia as it covers decisions "relating to an individual's property, financial affairs, and health and social care. It also applies to everyday decisions, such as personal care, what to wear and what to eat". (www.alzheimers.org.uk)
In accordance with the Mental Capacity Act 2005, it must always be assumed that everyone has the capacity to make decisions for themselves "unless all practical steps to help him (or her) to make a decision have been taken without success". (www.alzheimers.org.uk)
Frameworks
Such improvements involve improving the "public and professional awareness and understanding of dementia", "structured peer support and learning networks", "implementing the Carers' Strategy" a plan all dementia carers to receive as much help as possible, improving the living conditions for those living with dementia, not just in their own homes, but within residential care homes too. Overall, many of the key objectives are in some way or another about better research to achieve more of an understanding of dementia, to in turn improve the services and resource available to people with dementia and their carers, and to also better the general public's understanding of dementia so they aren't completely unaware of the condition. (www.gov.uk)
Bibliography
http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/site/scripts/documents_info.php?documentID=1674 [Assessed 21/4/15]
https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/168220/dh_094051.pdf [Assessed 21/4/15]