Social Work Practice with People with Dementia

Social Work Practice with People with Dementia critically discusses the cultural and discursive contexts in which social work with dementia takes place.

This is because how we think about dementia influences how we treat people living with the condition. The book also explains the demographic context that has made dementia a global public health priority in recent years. The different forms of dementia are discussed in a way that is accessible to a non-medical readership. The book discusses the different settings and circumstances in which social work with people with dementia and their carers takes place and examines the chief elements of the social work role. In doing this, it explains the professional knowledge, skills and values that social workers need in order to practice effectively in this area of growing importance. Part of this is appreciating how approaches to dementia care have evolved over time. In this context, the book discusses how the dominant bio-medical model has been challenged by person-centred and rights-based approaches. As a key part of social work is to offer people choices, the book provides information about a wide range of health, social care and other services that are available, whilst also highlighting the gaps that exist for different groups and in different areas. Case studies and activities help the reader apply theory to practice.

Social Work Practice with People with Dementia will be of particular interest to social work students and early career social workers, primarily in a UK context. However, it contains much relevant information about dementia and dementia practice for anyone involved with adult health and social care both in the UK and around the world.