Queen's University Belfast

Academic Institute

Bernadette McGuinness

E044

Dementia is a term used to describe a broad group of conditions that affect the brain and causes a progressive cognitive decline in the ability to think, learn and remember. At present there is no cure for dementia, nor a way to slow down its progress. The occurrence of dementia, together with the major health and social care burden associated with it, is predicted to increase considerably with our ageing population (Department of Health Social Services and Public Safety Northern Ireland, 2011). Falls in the elderly have several consequences affecting the individual, their carer and the healthcare system (Peach et al., 2017). These consequences involve stress, pain, reduced independence, increased anxiety and negative impact on quality of life. The costs of falls in all elderly over 65 years old in the United Kingdom exceed £2 billion annually (Peach et al., 2017). Dementia is associated with an increased risk of falls and fractures because of the decline in cognitive abilities, such as memory and executive functioning. The most common causes of falls for People with dementia are instability, medication and environmental hazards (Shaw, 2002). This study will assess the frequency of and factors associated with falls and fractures causing hospital admissions for PwD. Moreover, we aim to provide valuable information to improve policy surrounding the prevention of falls in PwD.

t is estimated that 19,000 people have dementia in Northern Ireland (Department of Health Social Services and Public Safety Northern Ireland, 2011). However, due to people living longer, the number of people being diagnosed with dementia will increase dramatically. By assessing the falls and fractures among people with dementia in Northern Ireland we hope to improve economic and social policies. For instance, Admissions and Dischargest research has suggested that people with dementia are significantly more likely to fall and injure themselves more than people without dementia. If results are similar in Northern Ireland, then a policy recommendation could be to ensure that people with dementia have the essential support required which may reduce the likelihood of falls and injury happening in the first place. Understanding the rates and reasons behind falls and fractures among people with dementia in Northern Ireland has the potential to, 1) Improve services for people with dementia, 2) Improve services and knowledge of dementia for their carers and family and 3) Provide valuable information to the patient’s medical team. The research proposed in this application could form the basis of a much larger retrospective analysis which could further investigate the rates and reasons of falls and fractures among people with dementia.

03/07/2019

TRE