Dementia and well-being: possibilities and challenges

Abstract

Reviews the book, Dementia and well-being: Possibilities and challenges by Ailsa Cook (2008). This book aimed primarily at readers studying or with a professional interest in health and social care. The book begins with a useful chapter setting out the field, with definitions and a description of recent health and social policy initiatives in Scotland and England where dementia has been identified as a national priority amid growing concern about services to people with dementia and their carers. But can policy initiatives enable practitioners to support and promote well-being for people with dementia, whatever the stage of their condition, and wherever they live? The book addresses this question by looking at 'mainstream' initiatives that affect people with dementia, as well as those with a specific focus. This book provides an excellent overview and critique of key policy agendas with regard to dementia in Scotland, which may have resonance elsewhere. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)