World Alzheimer Report 2022 ‐ How strong are global health systems: Lessons learned and case studies from across the globe

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundEach year Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) publishes a World Alzheimer Report, a comprehensive source of global health and socioeconomic information on dementia. The theme of ADI’s 2022 World Alzheimer Report was post‐diagnostic support ‐ aiming to provide a global perspective on treatment, care and support models, barriers to access and areas of best practice, and the role of policy in strengthening health systems.MethodWe conducted 3 global surveys; with people living with dementia in 41 countries, informal carers across 68 countries, and health & long‐term care professionals in 69 countries. 215 global experts contributed 119 expert essay and case studies. We also highlighted commentary and perspectives from people living with dementia and carers.ResultKey themes include a lack of access to post‐diagnostic support which impacted well‐being and health outcomes of families and professionals. 45% of people with dementia in lower‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) and 37% in high‐income countries (HICs) said they had not been offered support after their diagnosis. 66% of people with dementia did not have a personalised care plan. 54% of informal carers and 37% of professionals reported being stressed often or all the time. Case studies indicated stigma remains a major barrier and that care pathways are not clear or integrated – and often not culturally appropriate to ensure proper access to treatment and care. Carers and professionals expressed the need for better education and training. There were also areas of best practice to share.ConclusionHealth and long‐term care systems must be strengthened in order to provide treatment, care and support of people living with dementia and their carers. National dementia plans provide a framework, but don’t always guarantee access. Stigma must be challenged and person‐centred care that is culturally appropriate, gender inclusive, coordinated and accessible must become the norm. Support for carers must be prioritised and education and training must be improved and expanded. There are radical differences both between and within countries in education, acculturation, access to services, family responsibilities, and ability to mobilise resources. Understanding how these differences shape dementia care practice is crucial for developing appropriate dementia care policies.