Study 1.2: An examination of the natural history of unmet supportive care needs and psychosocial well-being over time of people with dementia and their carers.

Unmet needs have been demonstrated to adversely impact quality of life in patients diagnosed with a chronic disease. Additionally, co-morbid depression is a concern for approximately one third of people with dementia. Carers also report high rates of depression and may be under-treated due to prioritisation of the health care needs of the person with dementia.

This study aims to explore:

1)  the natural history of unmet needs and depression among people with dementia and their caregivers;

2) factors associated with higher unmet needs and greater levels of depression among people with dementia and their caregivers.

Recruitment has been completed for people with dementia (n=83) and carers (n=163). Analysis of these datasets is now underway. 6 and 12 month follow-up data collection with carers is ongoing.

Papers reporting on findings to be submitted during 2020-21.