Dementia is a disease that turns life upside down both for the person affected and for their relatives. Dementia covers a group of diseases that develop through a number of stages with different symptoms and different needs. It is estimated that around 8,000 Danes are diagnosed with dementia each year.
There are more than 200 different diseases that can cause dementia. The most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, which at least half of all people with dementia suffer from.
Today, it is not possible to cure dementia, but for some types of dementia it is possible to offer treatment that can delay or slow down the progressive decline in functioning for a period of time. Knowledge of the dementia diagnosis and the likely course of the disease is therefore an important tool when planning care for people with dementia. In addition, early diagnosis gives individuals the opportunity to plan their future lives, possibly in consultation with relatives and with professional assistance.
As a result of the growing older population, an increasing number of people in Denmark are expected to be affected by dementia in the coming years.
Replacement and respite care
Relatives to an older citizen with decreased physical or mental functionality can apply to the municipality for replacement or respite care.
Care Will (Advance Care Directive)
If you have wishes regarding how your care should be arranged in the event that you are diagnosed with dementia, you can create a care will. In this document, you can state your preferences for future care as well as provide information about how you have lived your life so far, which can help care staff provide dignified care based on your individual wishes and needs.
The will may, for example, include information about eating habits, clothing preferences, leisure interests, hygiene, and personal care.
Find more information (in Danish) about creating a care will at borger.dk
Danish Dementia Research Centre
To ensure continuous development and knowledge sharing in the field of dementia, a Danish Dementia Research Centre has been established. The centre works with research, education, and the dissemination of knowledge about dementia to professionals at all levels and across sectors throughout Denmark.
Find more information about the Danish Dementia Research Centre on their website