The care needs of dementia patients in Nam Dong District, Thua Thien Hue Province: An observational study using the Camberwell Assessment of Need for the Elderly questionnaire

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to describe the care needs among dementia patients in Nam Dong District, Thua Thien Hue Province by using the Camberwell Assessment of Need for the Elderly (CANE) questionnaire, and to examine its related factors. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 182 dementia patients living in Nam Dong District, Thua Thien Hue Province. The care needs of dementia patients were examined by using the CANE questionnaire (score range: 0-30). The CANE has shown a good level of reliability (α = 0.87). The multivariate linear regression analysis was undertaken to explore the associated factors of the care needs among dementia patients. Results: The mean score of the subjects' needs was 8.21 ± 7.99 (Min: 0; Max: 30). Met needs were reported most commonly in the following areas: food (34.1%), drugs (29.7%), physical health (25.3%) and looking after the home (24.7%). Meanwhile, unmet needs with the highest proportions included accommodation (30.2%), memory (24.7%), money/budget (24.2%), and information regarding health conditions and treatment (18.1%). Higher health care needs were significantly related to Co Tu ethnic group; unmarried group (including single; widowed; divorced/separated); poor, near-poor household economic status group. Conclusions: Unmet needs are common among dementia patients. Primary health care providers should work with carers to promote social support services as well as health care services that meet all needs of dementia patients and improve their quality of life. Keywords: dementia, health care needs, the Camberwell Assessment of Need for the Elderly (CANE), mountainous area.