Weathering the Silver Tsunami: Dementia Community Service in Singapore

Ting, Chuong Hock and Lim, W.P. (2016) Weathering the Silver Tsunami: Dementia Community Service in Singapore. European Psychiatry, 33.

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Abstract

Introduction The prevalence of dementia rises with the rapidly increasing elderly population in developed world. In Singapore,10% of the elderly population is estimated to have dementia. Other than physical and psychological needs, social welfare should also be addressed with the support of specialised geriatric care sources to improve their quality of life. Objective To study a case of an elderly with dementia, who was identified and managed through a multi-agency approach and to describe different services involved for dementia care. Aim To highlight the various elderly care organizations available in Singapore to address healthcare and social needs in dementia. Method Through a case report of an elderly who presented to hospital for medical issues with dementia, the social needs were identified and multiple agencies were involved to provide holistic care in dementia. Result A 77-year-old gentleman was brought by a community social worker to hospital as he was found ill during home visit. During admission, the concern for poor self-care and cognition decline was raised by his family. Mini-mental state examination was 16/30. He was diagnosed with vascular dementia with clinical and MRI Brain finding. With active multidisciplinary intervention, his medical issues were addressed, and family and social needs were attended by several voluntary welfare organizations. Access to memory clinic service was also arranged for. This intervention also provided opportunity for his long-term care and welfare. Conclusion Multi-agency approach is crucial in dementia care to identify their unmet needs and plan for long-term care in Singapore.

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