Table 2.

Summary of the seven factors influencing good EoLC for people with dementia

Undertaking timely planning discussions to ensure plans are discussed when the person with dementia has capacity and that they are documented and disseminated as appropriate.

Recognising end of life and providing supportive care to ensure effective management of key symptoms (e.g. pain, anxiety and nausea), and minimise distress by providing comfort in a familiar environment.

Co-ordination and continuity of care includes liaison between day and night staff in services and having established links with local services (e.g. hospices), particularly for support out of hours.

Working effectively with primary care can be facilitated by having a named liaison person in the practice. For care homes, liaison can be improved by regular routine visits and limiting the number of general practices with which residents are registered.

Managing hospitalisation includes avoiding unnecessary admissions by appropriate out-of-hours support and documentation of wishes and preferences. It also involves managing admission and discharge effectively where hospitalisation is necessary.

Continuing care after death to enable family members to be supported by known members of staff who cared for the person with dementia at the end of life. This continuity of care is valued by family members.

Valuing staff and ongoing learning facilitates staff retention and results in a more skilled and knowledgeable workforce. Stable staff teams are more able to detect emotional vulnerability in their colleagues and ensure timely and appropriate support.