HIGHLIGHT

People with sight loss and dementia need joined-up support

People living with the double burden of sight loss and dementia (some 123,000 people) often only have their needs in one area addressed, according to findings from an SSCR study focused on home settings led by Dr Karen Croucher from the University of York. Those who have to cope with both conditions are at greater risk of losing their independence, of falling, and of being socially isolated.

Many people with dementia and sight loss would benefit from joined-up working by practitioners in the two fields, but until now, little has been known about the complex challenges of providing support for people with both dementia and sight loss.

Only about half the people with dementia and sight loss in the study were receiving any formal support and, usually, that amounted to just a few hours of care a week. Most people who were not receiving services said that they wanted support but did not know who to ask or what was available.

The study suggests that assessments of care and support needs must draw on the expertise of both dementia and sensory impairment practitioners. Early diagnosis of both conditions helps enormously, as does post-diagnosis support. Any interventions and adaptations need to take into account an individual’s capacity to cope with change.

Familiarity of both people and place is crucial for people with the two conditions. Services should aim to provide more social and cognitive stimulation and enjoyable activities.

Other key findings include:

• Problems with eyesight are often considered secondary to cognition problems but people with dementia and sight loss need regular eye tests. Routine interventions for eyesight problems can dramatically improve levels of independence and quality of life.
• Lighting and the use of contrasting colours are key changes in homes that assist people to make the most of the vision they have and they can help to reduce disorientation.
• Extra care housing schemes could benefit people living with dementia and sight loss, particularly those who live alone.

Read the full summary findings