WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION’S GLOBAL ACTION PLAN ON THE PUBLIC HEALTH RESPONSE TO DEMENTIA 2017-2025

Abstract

In May 2017, the World Health Assembly adopted the global action plan on the public health response to dementia 2017–2025. The plan envisions “a world in which dementia is prevented and people with dementia and their carers live well and receive the care and support they need to fulfil their potential with dignity, respect, autonomy and equality.” It provides a comprehensive blueprint for action in seven strategic areas: making dementia a public health priority; increasing dementia awareness and establishing a dementia-friendly society; reducing the risk of dementia; improving diagnosis, treatment and care for people with dementia; supporting dementia carers; enhancing information systems for dementia and fostering dementia research and innovation. The plan highlights the importance of protecting and promoting human rights, providing community-based care and support, need for a multisectoral response to dementia by integrating health and social care approaches, and aligning dementia actions with those for mental health, noncommunicable diseases, ageing and disability. To move the dementia agenda forward, WHO is developing practical tools to support Member States. These include: the Global Dementia Observatory; dementia risk reduction guidelines; carer training programme iSupport; guidance to enhance diagnosis and management of dementia in primary health care within Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP); and global agenda for dementia research prioritisation. Member States, WHO and relevant partners will have to work collaboratively to ensure a comprehensive public health response to dementia. Much of the action will need to take place within countries, especially in low- and middle-income countries where the majority of people with dementia live.