New Zealand Framework for Dementia Care

This publication provides DHBs and the health and social support sectors with a guide for developing their dementia care pathways.  The framework has three guiding principles:

• following a person-centred and people-directed approach
• providing accessible, proactive and integrated services that are flexible to meet a variety of needs
• developing the highest possible standard of care.

The publication also highlights five key elements for effective dementia care:

• awareness and risk reduction
• assessment, diagnosis, early intervention and ongoing support
• living well
• meeting challenges to maximise wellbeing
• end of life.

Overarching factors that must be considered across all five key elements are also identified:

• education and training for people with dementia and their families and whānau
• workforce education and training
• readily accessible information
• governance
• family and whānau support
• culturally appropriate services
• funding streams
• monitoring and evaluation
• advocacy.