Many European countries recommend helpful therapies for people with dementia—like music, exercise, or memory activities—but most don’t explain clearly who these therapies work best for. This could lead to inequity - unfair differences in access to care. However, most guidelines don’t seem to take account of this risk. This is the conclusion of new scientific research, involving researchers from universities all over Europe, working together in a network called INTEREST.
Why guidelines are important
Dementia affects millions of people across Europe. While there’s no cure, non-medical therapies can improve quality of life. National guidelines, based on evidence from scientific research, help health and care professionals like doctors, psychologists and therapists to choose treatments that are proven to be helpful. However, different people have different needs and backgrounds, so the same therapies might not be equally appropriate or helpful for all people living with dementia.
What this study did
Led by Dr David Neal from Amsterdam UMC in the Netherlands, and supervised by Dr Louise Hopper from Dublin City University in Ireland, the researchers looked at 47 dementia care guidelines from 12 European countries. They asked: What non-medical therapies are recommended? Do the guidelines consider people’s age, health, or social situations (aspects of a theory called “intersectionality”)? Do they address fairness in access to care (known as equity)? The researchers also worked with Alzheimer Europe and members of the European Working Group of People Living With Dementia, to understand the perspectives and experiences of people living with dementia with respect to guidelines.
What the study found
Most guidelines (74%) recommend therapies like cognitive training, music, or physical activity. Only half mention how personal factors—like age or other health issues—might affect care. Very few guidelines talk about how things like gender, ethnicity, or income might create barriers to getting help.
Recommendations for change
The researchers recommend: More inclusive guidelines that explain which therapies work best for different people. Better access to therapies, no matter where someone lives or how much money they have. Involving people with dementia and their carers in writing the guidelines. Clearer information for families and caregivers about what support is available. The research was published in a special issue of the scientific journal Behavioral Sciences, and can be accessed here: Effective for Whom? A Review of Psychological and Social Intervention Recommendations in European Dementia Care Guidelines Through the Lenses of Social Health and Intersectionality
For more information, please contact Dr David Neal: d.n.neal@amsterdamumc.nl
