According to the National Centre for Social Research (2003), the number of older people in the UK is increasing in size and will continue doing so for several decades. Indeed, while in the year 2000, the median age was 37.4 years, it is estimated that by 2020, the median age will be 46.7 years. In terms of the health of this group, these statistics indicate that it is quite likely that the two most common health problems associated with old age, dementia and depression (see: Alzheimer's Disease International, 2003), can be expected to increase as well. The purpose of this paper is to discuss a case study of an older women diagnosed with dementia and other physical problems. The paper provides only a brief biography of the case and a short discussion of the assessment and planning phases of her care. However, there is a detailed delineation and discussion of the health care plan that was implemented and its evaluation. The final section of the paper summarizes the information covered and formulates conclusions.
Mrs. Jones lives alone, has very poor vision and has been diagnosed with dementia. She has become forgetful and appears depressed. She is neglecting her personal care and is not eating properly. Her house is cluttered and needs cleaning. Neighbors have complained that she calls them frequently wanting company. One neighbor, who visits with her several times per day, states that despite her staying for hours, Mrs. Jones still did not want her to leave. She relies on elderly neighbors to do her shopping as she is finding it to difficult to do on her own.
Diagnosis of Mrs. Jones' physical and mental status involved collecting pertinent medical history information and administering a battery of tests aimed at assessing degree of cognitive impairment and depression. Her current physical condition was also assessed and efforts were made to determine whether any existing illnesses or disabilities might be contributing to her ...