BACKGROUND: Alzheimer's disease (AD) impacts on persons with AD as well their families. This survey aimed to identify information/communication gaps, and quality of life and other issues, from both perspectives. METHODS: Persons with AD and their families or other carers from Europe, Brazil, and North America completed telephone interviews. Responses were analyzed by country. RESULTS: Five hundred two persons with AD and 614 carers were included. Issues important to persons with AD were treatment that helps control symptoms; feeling safe and supported at home; and ability to enjoy life. Most felt well-respected by family members. Families/carers considered a wider range of issues important, including detailed information about AD, regimens that are easier to comply with, and medication in a form that is easier to take. This reflects the fact that carers very often manage medications. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first global survey to include persons with AD themselves. Differences between responses from persons with AD and their caregivers highlight the importance of considering both viewpoints.
BACKGROUND:Alzheimer's disease (AD) impacts on persons with AD as well their families. This survey aimed to identify information/communication gaps, and quality of life and other issues, from both perspectives. METHODS:Persons with AD and their families or other carers from Europe, Brazil, and North America completed telephone interviews. Responses were analyzed by country. RESULTS: Five hundred two persons with AD and 614 carers were included. Issues important to persons with AD were treatment that helps control symptoms; feeling safe and supported at home; and ability to enjoy life. Most felt well-respected by family members. Families/carers considered a wider range of issues important, including detailed information about AD, regimens that are easier to comply with, and medication in a form that is easier to take. This reflects the fact that carers very often manage medications. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first global survey to include persons with AD themselves. Differences between responses from persons with AD and their caregivers highlight the importance of considering both viewpoints.
Authors: Manuel Lillo-Crespo; Jorge Riquelme; Rhoda Macrae; Wilson De Abreu; Elizabeth Hanson; Iva Holmerova; Mª José Cabañero; Rosario Ferrer; Debbie Tolson Journal: Glob Health Action Date: 2018 Impact factor: 2.640