DEMENTIA - QUESTIONS OF COST AND VALUE

The importance of economic considerations in determining the quantity and quality of services for people with dementia is beyond dispute. As the pressure on the resources available for health and social care increases, the need to mount a strong case for adequate resources for dementia-related services has become more pressing. The article reviews available evidence under three headings: the impact of dementia on national economics; its impact on individuals and their carers; and the costs and benefits of different models of service provision. It is concluded that there is evidence for the inadequacy of resources currently available; those resources could in many instances be better targeted; but there remain substantial gaps in our knowledge of the costs and benefits of different services and the likely long-term impact of increases in the numbers of people with dementia.