Needs of people with dementia in long-term care: a systematic review.

With the aging of the population and the projected increase of dementia in the coming years, it is crucial that we understand the needs of people with dementia (PWD) in order to provide appropriate care. The aim of this study is to determine, using the best evidence possible, the care needs of PWD living in long-term care (LTC). A total of 68 studies, published between January 2000 and September 2010, were identified from six databases. From the selected studies, 19 needs of PWD were identified. The existing evidence suggests that psychosocial needs such as the need to engage in daily individualized activities and care must not be ignored in LTC. This review aims to provide a clearer picture of the needs of this growing patient population.