Protecting Personhood and Achieving Quality of Life for Older Adults With Dementia in the U.S. Health Care System

Abstract

Objective: As the numbers of persons diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias increase, many questions arise pertaining to the quality of life of those diagnosed and the health care system as it relates to the provision of quality care for this population. This article examines the health disparities among older adults with dementia, emphasizing the protection of personhood and quality of life, along with a review of the barriers to health care access and utilization of persons living with dementia. Method: This literature review utilized electronic databases and other documents. Results: The findings suggest that while progress has been realized toward protecting personhood and achieving an improved quality of life among older adults with dementia in the U.S. health care system challenges still exist. Discussion: The implications of current and future public policy, avenues for further research, and strategies by which the health care community may better serve persons with dementia are outlined.

Keywords

older adults dementia personhood quality of life health disparities

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