Effectiveness of Early Dementia Screening in the UK Assignment Sample

Explore the impact and challenges of early dementia screening, highlighting its benefits, potential risks, and the evolving approaches in the UK healthcare system

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Chapter 1 - Methodology

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1.1 Introduction

The methodology chapter was associated with the analysis of usefulness of early dementia screening in the UK, which was evaluated here under Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) procedures. This stringent approach involved systematic search procedures in academic databases, and expert consultation to identify suitable studies and grey literature sources. Inclusion and exclusion criteria set to select studies based on their relevance, quality, and adherence to the study question. Data extraction forms designed to record key information from the chosen studies, followed by a critical appraisal to assess their quality. Data synthesis and research enabled a complete evaluation of the efficacy of early dementia screening in the UK while recognising potential limitations and biases in the existing literature.

1.2 Research Philosophy

Positivism research philosophy was implemented within this analysis. Positivism as a research philosophy can be actually executed to examine the usefulness of early screening of dementia in the UK (Marsonet, 2019). This method emphasised measurable data, empirical observation, and the scientific approach to evaluate the effect of screening programs. Adopting positivism in this aspect would commence by developing thorough hypotheses concerning the significance of early screening for dementia. After that designing a stringent study, using a systematic literature review, to accumulate data on the preponderance of dementia, the age at which people were screened, and the succeeding health outcomes.

In terms of measuring significance, collecting data on the various identified case were required through early screening, with available treatment options, and the overall quality and health management of life outcomes for those survivors. By concentrating on quantifiable data, objective positivism could assist in providing concrete and clear evidence concerning the consequences of early dementia screening in the UK. In Addition, the positivism philosophy focused on systematic and replicable research methods assuring that the research can be replicated by other investigators, thus improving the validity and reliability of the findings (Nickerson, 2022). By clinging to positivist principles, some valuable understandings of the measurable and practical benefits of early dementia screening in the UK, can advise healthcare guidelines and enhance the life quality for people at risk of this debilitating disease.

1.3 Research Design

The secondary research strategy for this systematic literature review involved a methodical approach to gathering and evaluating existing research (Chong & Plonsky, 2023). Firstly, clearly define the research objectives and questions. Design a comprehensive search strategy, establishing databases, keywords, and search lines. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were specified to determine the eligibility of studies. Execute the search across chosen databases and maintain records of the process. Screen retrieved articles systematically, reviewing titles, abstracts, and full texts. Created a data extraction form to collect pertinent information from selected studies. Lastly, evaluate the quality of included studies utilising established tools, assuring that the review supports objectivity and rigour in its analysis of the existing literature.

1.4 Search Strategy

Search Strategy-Key Terms
1) (Role of screening OR Role of early screening) AND (Dementia OR loss of cognitive function) AND (UK OR Rate of dementia in UK)
2) (Effectiveness of screening strategy OR screening strategy) AND (Systematic Literature review OR SLR) AND (Dementia screening OR Early screening)
3) (screening strategy OR screening) AND (Alzheimer’s disease OR Dementia) AND (early screening OR screening)
Table 1: Search Strategy-Key Terms

For this systematic literature review data was being extracted from some authentic database or source like Science Direct, and PubMed. The significance of the search strategy for this analysis could be evaluated through relevant keyword searches, which makes the outcome of this analysis effective and hassle-free. Different data related to the research topic could be categorised via authentic keywords. The keyword analysis easily maintains the accessibility of authentic data sources like peer-reviewed journals or articles (Özkula et al. 2023). Boolean operator through ‘AND’, and ‘OR’ the relevant keywords being extracted and enhance the significance of the entire research.

1.5 Data Analysis

As stated earlier above, two major online journal databases, PubMed and ScienceDirect, were searched, generating a total of 3945 publications, from PubMed 412 article, and from ScienceDirect 3533 article. 3 distinct search terms were utilised and the breakdown of the results was the following; when “effectiveness of early dementia screening initiatives in the UK” was used as a search term, PubMed showcased 389 results while 931 results were returned on Science Direct. When “challenges associated with early dementia screening and detection in the UK” was used, ScienceDirect demonstrated 1841 results while the same search term on PubMed returned 14 results. The third search term used was “current state of dementia screening initiatives in the UK” which returned 761 results on ScienceDirect and 9 results on PubMed. [Referred to Appendix 1-6]

The below table signifies the literature search results employing the keywords “current state”, "effectiveness", and "challenges" – of early dementia screening in the UK.

Search Term Effectiveness of
early dementia
screening
initiatives in the
UK
Challenges
associated with early dementia
screening and detection in the UK
Current state of
early dementia
screening
and detection in the UK
Total
PubMed 389 14 9 412
ScienceDirect 931 1841 761 3533
Total 1320 1855 770 3945
Table 2: Literature search result’s summary

1.6 Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria

Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria
Criteria Inclusion Exclusion
Time 2015-2023 Literature published before 2015
Language English Languages excluding English
Publication Type · Peer-reviewed
· Scholarly journals or articles
Journals that were not eventually peer-reviewed
Subject UK OR Rate of dementia in UK, Effectiveness of screening strategy OR screening strategy, Systematic Literature Review OR SLR, Dementia screening OR Early screening No other keywords except UK OR Rate of dementia in UK, Effectiveness of screening strategy OR screening strategy, Systematic Literature Review OR SLR, Dementia screening OR Early screening
Table 3: Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria

Inclusion criteria

Inclusion criteria for this SLR were the predefined elements that the investigator must enclose to be considered for inclusion in the review. These criteria typically specify the type of participants, interventions, and outcomes (PIO elements), study design, publication date (last 5 years articles), and language. In selecting peer-reviewed studies, researchers aim to ensure relevance and consistency with the review's research question (Connelly, 220). By specifying clear inclusion criteria, this research maintains the objectivity and rigour of the review approach, decreasing potential bias. Inclusion criteria should align with the research objectives and assist in identifying studies that contribute to the review's overall reliability, and quality eventually informing evidence-based decision-making.

Exclusion criteria

Exclusion criteria for this analysis were all about omitted or disregarded criteria for the review. These criteria were essential for maintaining the review's focus and relevance. They typically involve factors such as irrelevant study designs, unrelated outcomes, publication status (e.g., grey literature), language barriers (only English language considered), and studies conducted outside the fixed date range (2019-2023). Exclusion criteria were essential for facilitating the review process and assuring that only research meeting the highest methodology, standards of quality, and alignment with the research question were formed. This assists in reducing bias and improving the overall reliability and integrity of the systematic literature review.

PIO Analysis

Element Description
Population The individuals or group under study.
Intervention The treatment, exposure, or action being applied to the population.
Outcome The specific result or effect of the intervention being measured.
Table 4: PIO Analysis

1.7 PRISMA Chart

3945 publications were found after doing a preliminary search of online journal databases, including 412 from PubMed and 3533 from ScienceDirect. By going over their titles and abstracts, the first step was to weed out duplicate papers and pointless study publications (1500). The papers' abstracts were then examined to determine whether they met the criteria for the research limitation. 1200 of the publications were again eliminated for being only marginally or tangentially relevant. Only 100 remain for a thorough evaluation. In addition, 76 had to be eliminated because they belonged to an irrelevant demographic (those under 65) and because of methodological reasons and theoretical heaviness (18). Sadly, this resulted in 94 more articles being erased. Six of the 100 studies were ultimately selected for the present investigation after a full-text analysis of the other publications produced encouraging findings. The PRISMA diagram below (Figure 3.1) depicts the data acquisition strategy. The criteria for study selection were also being used to synthesise an overall of 6 systematic data.

Abstracts were evaluated to check whether they met research criteria, and title reviews were used to eliminate duplicate and irrelevant publications. Following a thorough screening, 100 articles were selected for further investigation. 6 article were selected for inclusion in the research after being extensively read in their entirety.

Database Initial search - articles After applying filters – articles
PubMed 3533 3
ScienceDirect 412 3
Table 5: Initial searches and after applying filters.

Below is a short-form list of the selected publications. Full References are available in the list of references.

Article 1: Panegyres et al. (2016)

Article 2: Martin et al. (2015)

Article 3: Giebel et al. (2014)

Article 4: Wilkinson et al (2018)

Article 5: Eichler. et al (2014)

Article 6: Sagbakken et al (2018)

PRISMA diagram explaining the process of search outcomes

Figure 3.1: PRISMA diagram explaining the process of search outcomes

1.8 CASP tools

Each article chosen for our discussion has been evaluated for quality and rigour using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) methodology. This helped to assess different facets of the investigation, comprising the study's planning, methodology, data collecting, and analysis, using the CASP tool (Long et al., 2020). It assisted in evaluating the credibility and validity of the research that were included, ensuring that our debate was supported by solid and reliable data. We have encouraged a more rigorous and evidence-based study of the subthemes connected to healthcare disparities by adhering to the CASP standards, which has improved the accuracy and legitimacy of our analysis.

1.9 Data Extraction and Analysis

Recording and compiling pertinent data from chosen research or sources were referred to as the extraction of data for this methodical process. This entailed developing a standardised data extraction form to gather crucial data regarding study features, techniques, participant demographics, screening procedures, and outcomes in the setting of the systematic review. After reviewing each source or study, extracting the identified data observed here, and assesses the reliability and quality of the information. The extracted data is afterwards synthesised, either statistically, or normatively to answer research questions and deliver a comprehensive outline of the topic. Data extraction was a crucial step to assure the consistency, accuracy and integrity of the information included in this analysis.

1.10 Ethical Considerations

This systematic literature review showed the effectiveness of early dementia screening in the UK, ethical reflections were essential. This analysis adhered to the principles of informed consent, assuring that participants' confidentiality and privacy were protected. In addition, minimising potential distress and harm to people with dementia or their caregivers were fundamental. It was essential to acknowledge possible conflicts of interest, reveal funding sources, and support transparency throughout the research method. Respecting intellectual property rights and copyrights when utilising existing studies was also essential. Lastly, this research supports the declarations of academic integrity, assuring that the review was accomplished with impartiality and rigour while avoiding bias or data manipulation.

1.11 Limitations

The systematic literature review on the effectiveness of early dementia screening in the UK faced limitations. Publication bias might be skew results, with positive findings being more likely to be published. Heterogeneity in study designs and outcome measures could complicate data synthesis. Variations in the quality of included studies could affect the overall reliability of findings. Generalisability was restricted to the UK context due to regional variations in healthcare systems and cultural factors. Additionally, the evolving nature of dementia screening and advances in research might mean that the review's conclusions become outdated over time, necessitating ongoing updates to maintain relevance.

1.12 Conclusion

In conclusion, the methodology for the systematic literature review on the effectiveness of early dementia screening in the UK, following PRISMA procedures, provided a methodical and complete approach to proof synthesis. By utilising a relentless search strategy, defined inclusion benchmarks, and accurate data extraction, this methodology minimised preference and ensures the inclusion of high-quality investigations. The critical assessment of selected studies further improved the dependability of the findings. The systematic approach enabled a concentrated analysis of the existing proof, contributing valuable understandings of the significance of early dementia screening in the UK while recognising and addressing potential constraints inherent in the literature.

Chapter 2 - Results and Discussion

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2.1 Introduction

This part of the research mainly focuses on today's rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, understanding and addressing the experiences and needs of patients and their caregivers throughout the screening and diagnostic process are of paramount importance. This introductory research seeks to delve into the intricate dynamics of this healthcare journey, aiming to uncover the challenges, emotions, and critical requirements faced by those navigating the path from initial screening to diagnosis. By examining these experiences, we can gain valuable insights into improving patient-centred care, improving communication, and optimising support systems. This investigation is pivotal for fostering equitable access, reducing disparities, and ultimately ensuring a more compassionate and effective healthcare experience for all.

2.2 Quality Assessment

It is essential in the healthcare domain that evidence of research offers unbiased and reliable data. As per advanced scientific understanding, the distorted outcomes possibility increased. First, stringent inclusion criteria are defined to determine which studies meet the research objectives. A comprehensive search strategy is employed, specifying databases, keywords, and time frames (Zhai & Min, 2020). Data extraction procedures are outlined, including the variables of interest and methods to address missing or unclear information. Bias assessment is conducted using established tools for various study designs, thereby assessing the risk of bias in each included study. The synthesis of evidence is performed, employing appropriate techniques such as meta-analysis or narrative synthesis. Potential publication bias is addressed, by searching for unpublished or grey literature. Inter-rater reliability among reviewers is maintained, and any discrepancies are resolved through discussion. The quality assessment results are then presented alongside the synthesized evidence, providing a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and limitations of the included studies.

2.3 Thematic analysis

2.3.1 Theme 1: Evaluating the various screening tools and methods used in early dementia screening

The strategy of early screening of dementia could become effective by the evaluation of different screening tools and methods. Cognitive Testing is one of the mini-mental state examinations (MMSE) that is used widely for early screening (Nagaratnam et al. 2022). In terms of screening any type of disease the usage of a favourably sensitive, excessively precise test that can be dispensed at low expenditure on large UK residents creates value with a very factual negative and positive predictive significance. The MMSE test which can be ended within 15 minutes ranks cognitive impairment on a scale of 0 to 30. An examination of research scheduled to evaluate the diagnostic precision of the MMSE revealed that 27 became the cut-off score was denotative of MCI, with a sharpness of 45%–60% and particularity of 65%–90%, while rank less than 26 indicating poorer cognitive process. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) is a renowned dementia screening device that was particularly developed for MCI detection and takes around 10 minutes to dispense (Jia et al. 2021). It has a specificity and sensitivity of MCI detecting at 50%–76% and 80%–100%. Eventually, the completion of the Mini-Cog testing and General Practitioner Assessment of Cognition (GPCOG) screen is as psychometrically and clinically vital as the MMSE suggests that these cognitive screening strategies might be the course of the future of dementia’s primary care. General practitioners (GPs) have an important role in the management and diagnosis of dementia screening and are the foremost stage in the approach to initial diagnosis. Many of the present concise screening standards, such as the MMSE, have mediocre sharpness but only reasonable particularity in screening dementia.

Usage of various tools for screening dementia

Figure 4.1: Usage of various tools for screening dementia

Some of the common tools for analysing the initial stages of dementia could be the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale - Cognitive (ADAS-Cog), and the Brief Cognitive Rating Scale. Most of the survivors perform effectively during the screening procedure, but their thinking impairments and memory may be explored as more comprehensive testing (dementia.org.au, 2023). Most of the tests have been evaluated as social, educational, and cultural biases. MMSE is one of the best tools for a brief analysis of dementia. Through this screening method, a cut-point of 24 to 26 out of 30 points is generally accepted as a positive screen and could initiate diagnostic evaluation with further examination, general history, and testing for dementia.

2.3.2 Theme 2: Assessing the clinical effectiveness and societal implications of early dementia screening

Evaluating the clinical effectiveness and societal implications of early dementia screening is a multifaceted effort of critical importance. Clinical effectiveness leads to the consequence of screening on healthcare practices, and patient outcomes while societal implications confine broader consequences for families, individuals, and society as a whole. Early dementia screening has the prospect of enabling intervention, and timely diagnosis improving the quality of life for UK people at risk (Watt et al., 2019). It can direct the early approach of therapeutic actions, including support services and cognitive interventions. Early detection allows healthcare providers to develop tailored care techniques, slow cognitive reduction, and enhance patient outcomes. The clinical effectiveness of such screening is essential for controlling missed diagnoses, reducing healthcare expenses, and optimising resource allocation in the healthcare structure.

On the other hand, for early dementia screening the societal implications expand beyond the respective level. These programs lessen the responsibility on caregivers by delivering respite care and support services. In addition, they contribute to a more knowledgeable society, decreasing the stigma surrounding dementia and promoting early diagnosis. On a wider scale, effective screening has economic importance, appreciably reducing long-term healthcare expenses and the societal effect of dementia (Ruisoto et al., 2020). It even helps in the planning of public health structures, as it allows predicting the future prevalence of dementia in the UK population. In the UK, social service assessment shows if the assessment shows individuals need help with everyday assignments, a person from social services will examine this with them, and a carer or relative. Together you can agree on a joint plan of needs and how these will be met (nhs.uk, 2022). Effective screening programs can lead to improved patient consequences, decreased healthcare costs, and a supportive and more dementia-aware society.

2.3.3 Theme 3: Exploring issues of accessibility, equity, and disparities in screening and diagnosis

Issues of equity, accessibility, and disparities in diagnosis and screening present huge problems within healthcare procedures. Accessibility pertains to the alleviation with which people can utilise and access healthcare assistance. For a healthcare strategy to be adequate, it must assure that these services are eventually geographically proximate and available to all, in underserved and remote areas as well (Balls-Berry & Babulal, 2022). Equity mandates that every individual, regardless of their race, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, gender, or other demographic characteristics, should have an equivalent opportunity to access high-quality and timely healthcare. Yet, disparities continue, driven by biases and systemic inequalities in healthcare delivery.

key stages within the diagnostic process

Figure 4.2: key stages within the diagnostic process

These differences usually display as differential access to diagnostic and screening procedures, with marginalised residents facing more considerable obstacles. This inequity can initiate to hindered diagnoses and diminished credentials for preventative care, resulting in unequal health outputs (Fleming et al., 2021). To handle these issues, policymakers and healthcare systems must embrace strategies that prioritise the reduction of barriers, the advancement of inclusivity, and the removal of disparities in healthcare services development. Acquiring a more equitable, accessible, and appropriate healthcare design is not only a point of social arbitration but also an essential necessity for improving public health consequences and prevalent well-being.

2.3.4 Theme 4: Exploring the needs and experiences of dementia patients and their caregivers throughout the diagnostic and screening process

Investigating the needs and experiences of patients and their caregivers over the diagnostic and screening process is important for enhancing the healthcare quality and confirming a patient-centred strategy. This research tries to acquire an understanding of the multifaceted characteristics of the caregiver and their patient journey, shedding rays on the emotions, challenges, and necessities they face from the relevant screening strategy through the dementia diagnostic stage (Shorey et al., 2020). Caregivers and patients frequently confront uncertainty and anxiety during the screening procedure, concerning about the potential outcomes, procedure and waiting duration for better results. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate their psychological support and informational needs requirements at this phase.

The diagnostic approach, with its consultations, tests and potential treatment findings, can be an overwhelming and complex experience. Knowing the priorities and preferences of caregivers and their patients in terms of shared decision-making, communication, and the timing of statement dissemination is necessary for improving the patient's feeling of control and involvement. Moreover, considering the influence of financial burdens, accessibility and logistical problems in healthcare management is crucial to ensuring minimising disparities and equitable access throughout the diagnostic and screening process (Braun et al., 2021). Ultimately, by investigating and addressing the experiences and needs of patients and caregivers, healthcare providers and policymakers can better tailor their services and support systems to foster a more compassionate, patient-centric, and effective healthcare journey. This research can serve as a foundation for improving healthcare delivery, patient satisfaction, and overall health outcomes.

Chapter 3 - Discussion of Findings

3.1 Introduction

In this discussion section, focus on a comprehensive analysis of the subthemes explored within the broader context of accessibility, equity, and disparities in healthcare screening and diagnosis. These subthemes encompass geographical disparities, socioeconomic inequities, cultural and linguistic barriers, healthcare system factors, disparities within vulnerable populations, technological solutions, policy implications, and patient education and advocacy. Through detailed data extraction tables, we will systematically dissect the key findings and patterns associated with each subtheme, highlighting the underlying research and evidence. This analytical journey seeks to offer a nuanced understanding of healthcare disparities and provide valuable insights for informed decision-making and future research directions.

3.2 Summary of Findings

No Author Aim Methodology Findings/Discussion Conclusion
1 Panegyres et al. (2016) Alzheimer’s Disease – It needs early diagnosis Clinical Evaluation Alzheimer’s dementia places an immense burden on people with the sickness, their careers and families, but also the social care system, health and society in general. As it begins with brain injury. With global growth in longevity, the majority of Alzheimer’s disease is escalating, and there is a sharp necessity for procedures to control or delay the start of disease and subsequent dementia. This disease is the most common to induce the syndrome of dementia. Other diseases can also cause dementia. As it is frequently challenging to define the precise dementia subtype, it is difficult to calculate an exact estimate of the prevalence of Alzheimer's dementia.
2 Martin et al. (2015) Reducing depression symptoms for dementia survival through comparative efficacy Systematic review According to these findings, there is a good chance that non-drug therapies will help dementia patients in a way that is clinically significant. As with any screening programme, dementia screening presents complicated questions about doctors' and the public's preferences and choices. It is uncertain which particular criteria are most likely to increase or decrease screening uptake.
3 Giebel et al. (2015) Collaborative dementia care management (DCM) in a cost-effectiveness method PwD and proxy measures of psychopathology For individuals paying for public health care as well as patients, especially those who live alone, DCM may prove as a financially advantageous technique for treating dementia. The case of post-diagnostic care and early diagnosis for dementia survivors is highlighted in the conclusion.
4 Wilkinson et al. (2018) Applications for Mobile Health for the effective provision of healthcare to people with dementia and support to their carers Systematic literature review The aim of this extensive analysis is to determine, appraise, and synthesise the current evidence of using healthcare-based dementia apps as a healthcare resource for people with dementia. This extensive study's goal is to locate, assess, and summarise the available data on the usage of healthcare-based applications as a healthcare resource for dementia patients and carers. Along with reviewing the full-text and peer-reviewed literature, commercial mobile stores' mHealth-based dementia applications were also examined.
5 Eichler et al. (2014) Alzheimer’s Disease - Early Diagnosis General practitioner (GP)-based, randomised, controlled intervention trial The disease, Alzheimer's is a neurological disorder that affects awareness, function, and behaviour. It is irreversible and gradual. The advancement of Alzheimer's disorder includes mild cognitive and/or behavioural impairment, preclinical disease, and then dementia. Recently, the viewpoint of the Alzheimer's community has changed to support an early diagnosis of the disease. This move will allow patients to think ahead and consider symptomatic treatments and lifestyle modifications that might lessen cognitive deficits and, in the end, help them maintain their quality of life.
6 Sagbakken et al. (2018) Cognitive evaluation instruments for detecting moderate cognitive impairment Focus-group discussions and qualitative in-depth interviews Health experts explained how some families would blame the signs of dementia on the natural ageing process, whereas other people might view them as embarrassing; both scenarios might put off or hinder families from getting help. Treatment, detection, and improved care analysis for dementia survivors are under the guidance of primary care experts for strengthening their cross-cultural advancement.
Table 6: Data Extraction table

3.3 Subtheme Analysis

3.3.1 Theme 1 Evaluating the various screening tools and methods used in early dementia screening

Subtheme 1: Early Intervention and Treatment Options

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Early intervention for dementia is critical. It involves timely diagnosis, individualized care plans, and a multidisciplinary approach. Cognitive stimulation programs, comprising memory exercises and cognitive training, can help maintain cognitive function. Medications, such as cholinesterase inhibitors and meantime, may be prescribed to manage symptoms like memory loss and behavioural changes. Lifestyle modifications, including a balanced diet and physical exercise, are crucial. Support for caregivers is essential to reduce caregiver burden. Therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy and occupational therapy can help patients and caregivers cope (Moon & Park, 2020). Community resources, support groups, and respite care are invaluable. Early intervention can enhance the patient's quality of life and potentially slow disease progression, emphasizing the significance of early diagnosis and comprehensive care.

Subtheme 2: Technological Innovations for early dementia screening

Technological innovations have revolutionized early dementia screening. Computer-based assessments and smartphone applications offer efficient and accessible tools for cognitive testing. Wearable devices, equipped with sensors, can monitor changes in daily activities, sleep patterns, and vital signs. Virtual reality and artificial intelligence applications help assess cognitive function and detect early warning signs. Telehealth platforms enable remote screening and monitoring, bridging gaps in healthcare access. These innovations provide a convenient and cost-effective means to reach a broader population, facilitating early detection of dementia and potentially improving outcomes by allowing for timely interventions and support.

3.2.2 Theme 2: Assessing the Clinical Effectiveness and Societal Implications of early dementia screening

Subtheme 1: Exploring the Impact of Screening on Caregivers and their Support Needs

Screening for dementia significantly impacts caregivers, as it often necessitates increased care responsibilities and emotional stress. Caregivers may require additional support in the form of respite care, counselling, and educational resources to cope with the challenges of caregiving and ensure the well-being of both the patient and themselves. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment, or MoCA, appears to be a promising (pen and paper) assessment for mental clinic assessment as well as for population screening based on the number of research (31 publications) and its accuracy (84%) and accuracy (74%) values (De Roeck et al.,2019).

Stages within the Alzheimer’s disease continuum

Figure 5.1 Stages within the Alzheimer’s disease continuum

Subtheme 2: Cost-effectiveness and Resource Allocation for dementia care

Cost-effectiveness and resource allocation in dementia care are crucial considerations. Balancing the expenses of diagnosis, treatment, and support services with available resources is essential. Efficient allocation ensures optimal care delivery and minimizes societal costs, making early interventions, community support, and prevention measures vital components in the overall cost-effectiveness strategy. There are numerous Alzheimer's disease screening examples available. The majority of tests, however, have only been approved for use in memory clinics, and nothing is known about the psychometric characteristics of the instruments. Particularly, further study is needed on computer tests. Although the MoCA is a promising tool, it has a rather low specificity for detecting early Alzheimer's disease.

3.2.3 Theme 3: Exploring issues of accessibility, equity, and disparities in screening and diagnosis

Subtheme 1: Impact of geographical location on healthcare disparities.

Geographical location significantly influences healthcare disparities. Rural areas often face limited healthcare infrastructure, reduced access to specialists, and longer travel times to healthcare facilities. These challenges contribute to disparities in screening, diagnosis, and overall healthcare outcomes, highlighting the need for strategies to address geographical healthcare inequities. It has been observed that for those with Alzheimer's disease (AD), especially at early or prodromal phases, late-stage clinical research of medications with a condition-modifying effect promises new optimism. Additionally, the growing body of knowledge regarding non-pharmacological methods of treating cognitive decline raises the possibility of treating MCI's secondary causes (Sabbagh et al., 2020). Functional, clinical and cognitive measures represent mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a disorder that represents a material pessimistic impact on day-to-day functioning for the survivors.

Chapter 4 - Conclusion and Recommendations

4.1 Conclusion

This SLR analysis of the significance of early screening of dementia in the UK indicates a useful interpretation of a vital part of healthcare. Early screening of dementia is significant for convenient diagnosis, and intervention probably improving the life quality for affected individuals and easing the constraint on the healthcare system and caregivers. While this analysis of existing literature indicates that early dementia screening can show to the early identification of mental impairment and the initiation of proper interventions, several constraints must be acknowledged.

The variability in screening tools and outcome extents across studies, as well as the heterogeneity in study methods, delays direct comparisons and the synthesis of conclusive results (Howard et al., 2021). Moreover, the potential impact of journal bias and variations in the grade of primary studies highlights the requirement for caution in analysing the results. It is essential to recognise that the conclusions are specific to the UK context and may not be readily generalisable to other areas with differing healthcare systems and cultural factors.

Lastly, it can be stated that the significance of early dementia screening in the UK is a complex and developing field. While there is a growing body of proof supporting its potential usefulness, further investigation is required to address the limitations of existing investigations and provide more powerful, standardised methods for evaluating the impact of early screening. The continuous commitment to research in this area is crucial to purifying and developing the understanding of early dementia screening's true efficacy and its role in improving the lives of individuals at risk of this disease.

4.2 Strengths and Limitations

The strength of early dementia screening in the UK lies in its possibility to seriously improve patient consequences and healthcare administration. Timely identification of mental decrease allows for early intervention and tailored care, potentially delaying the progression of the disease and improving the quality of life for those affected. It also reduces the limitations on caregivers and the healthcare system by helping efficient resource assignment (Ford et al., 2021). Furthermore, early dementia screening aligns with the regulations of patient-centred care, promoting knowledgeable decision-making and designating people to plan for their future. As a necessary public health strategy, it can contribute to growing awareness, decreasing stigma, and promoting research improvements in dementia prevention and treatment. Moreover, the dementia diagnosis process could be easily made just after a stringent clinical assessment along with medical history mental and cognitive state examinations, relevant investigations, and physical examination. Most importantly Clinical trials are presently in improvement to evaluate whether huge Aβ antibody doses can control cognitive reduction in pre-symptomatic survivors with less heterogeneous disorders.

A considerable limitation in the effectiveness of early dementia screening in the UK is the possibility of overdiagnosis and subsequent overtreatment. Screening tools, while essential for early identification, can sometimes recognise individuals as "at risk" who may never generate clinically significant dementia during their lifetime. This can lead to medicalisation, unnecessary stress and resource allocation. In addition, early screening may not manage the root causes of dementia, such as underlying health disparities and social determinants, which must be evaluated to develop a more holistic strategy for dementia prevention. Moreover, the early screening process for dementia should ensure sensitivity to linguistic and cultural diversity to dodge potential biases in diagnosis and access.

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4.3 Recommendations- Clinical Practice Implications

4.3.1 Standardised Screening Protocols:

In terms of analysing standardised-level screening strategy for the significance of early dementia screening in the UK is crucial for achieving dependability and consistency in the appraisal of cognitive impairment. These protocols can include a set of constant directions and guidelines to be heeded by healthcare providers across the country. Key components of standardisation should retain the preference for detailed assessment standards, validated screening tools, and suggested inspection frequencies, confirming that all individuals at risk are identified in a methodical format. Moreover, clear guidelines on patient information, informed consent, and the protection of privacy should be incorporated. Such protocols would contribute to enhancing the broad effectiveness of dementia screening programs and inspiring the intervention essential and early diagnosis for enhancing the quality of life and patient outcomes. Maintaining this protocol assists in ensuring that all records are accurate in further treatment.

4.3.2 Integrated Care Pathways:

Integrated care pathways are significant for enhancing the significance of early screening for dementia in the UK. These courses can deliver a collective and seamless journey for people or survivors determined as at threat during dementia screening (Wong-Lin et al., 2020). They should develop a precise schedule for follow-up judgments, access to appropriate support services, and referrals to specialists. By promoting a holistic process of care, integrated pathways can enable timely interventions, better monitoring of patients, and improved support for both individuals and their caregivers. These pathways will maximise the usefulness of early dementia screening by ensuring that those identified as needing further care receive it promptly and completely. Expect it to be even crazier in the coming days which change the scenario of this type of treatment.

4.3.3 Telehealth and Remote Monitoring

Incorporating telehealth and remote monitoring into the framework of early dementia screening in the UK is important for reaching people who may have narrow access to standard healthcare facilities (Nkodo et al., 2022). Telehealth solutions can deliver remote mental assessments, allowing timely screening and monitoring of at-risk individuals. Furthermore, remote monitoring technologies can enable continuous data collection, allowing for the early detection of cognitive decline and immediate intervention. This approach enhances the accessibility and reaches of screening programs, particularly in rural areas, and contributes to the overall effectiveness of early dementia detection and care in the UK. This process is very effective in every treatment, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic not in the UK but also in every part of the world.

4.3.4 Family and Caregiver Support

Providing strong family and caregiver support is a crucial component for the effectiveness of early dementia screening in the UK. Early identification of dementia often sets additional pressure on family members and caregivers. Offering help such as educational programs, counselling services, and respite care can help families better understand and cope with the challenges of dementia care. Such support not only alleviates the burden on caregivers but also contributes to improved patient outcomes and quality of life. Recognizing and addressing the needs of families and caregivers is essential for the success of early dementia screening programs.

4.4 Research Implications

The research implications of investigating the effectiveness of early dementia screening in the UK are multi-faceted and have wide-reaching importance for both scientific inquiry and public health policy. This research can lead to the improvement of early dementia screening protocols, helping to determine the most dependable and valid tools and methods for determining individuals at risk. Such improvement can enhance the overall accuracy of screening and minimise the risk of false positives and negatives. Comprehending the effectiveness of early screening is deeply important for clinical preparation. It can encourage healthcare providers to proactively offer interventions and support to people at risk, potentially delaying the progression of the disease and improving their quality of life (Wilson et al., 2023). Research determinations can navigate healthcare policymakers in optimising help allocation by concentrating on interventions and services that are most effective for dementia prevention and early management.

Knowledge developed from this research can play an essential role in growing public awareness and decreasing the stigma associated with dementia. A better knowledge of the advantages of early screening can encourage people to pursue assessment without fear of societal judgment (Sommerlad et al., 2022). The research's importance extends to prioritising future investigations on dementia precluding and treatment. Areas that show commitment to early screening significance can guide researchers to investigate specific interventions or therapeutic approaches in greater depth. The importance also connects to ethical considerations, highlighting the need for notified consent and robust privacy protections in dementia screening. It can be concluded that the research into the significance of early dementia screening in the UK has the potential to influence clinical practice, resource allocation, public perception, and future research priorities. It is a critical area of study with far-reaching implications for addressing the challenges posed by dementia in an ageing population.

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