Quality of life in dementia

Abstract

This paper discusses the concept of quality of life as it relates to people with dementia. Dementia is a disease that causes a decline in functional abilities which leads to a decrease in quality of life. Quality of life can be defined as an overall well-being that combines objective and subjective evaluations of an individual’s perceived state of satisfaction in their abilities and achievements. Wellbeing is further categorized in six dimensions which are: physical wellbeing, material wellbeing, emotional wellbeing, social wellbeing, spiritual wellbeing, and mental wellbeing. If these six dimensions of wellbeing are not achieved in the life of an individual with dementia, may experience a decline in overall quality of life. Nurses have a critical role in helping persons with dementia maintain or improve their QOL by gaining a better understanding of QOL, its significance, and what it means to each individual. In this paper, strategies for maintaining or improving quality of life in the six dimensions of wellbeing are discussed. In addition, areas of future research are recommended.