Caregivers for people with dementia. What is the family physician's role?

OBJECTIVE To examine the role of family physicians in providing support and care to caregivers for people with dementia.

QUALITY OF EVIDENCE Data were obtained from Alzheimer Society guidelines, published consensus statements, and guidelines for family physicians caring for people with dementia and their caregivers. Most of the reported findings and recommendations are based on information from expert consensus statements and opinion.

MAIN MESSAGE Caring for people with dementia causes substantial psychological and physical morbidity. Services developed for caregivers (in-home respite and individual psychological interventions) and comprehensive support programs are helpful in relieving caregiver distress. There is a role for family physicians in following caregivers longitudinally to assess their physical and emotional health and coping skills, to provide information and assistance in dealing with problems as they arise, to assist caregivers in mobilizing family and friends, and to facilitate referrals to appropriate services and resources.

CONCLUSIONS Family physicians have an important role in identifying caregiver problems and providing direct and ongoing support to caregivers in their day-to-day role.