A guide to assessing risk and applying theory to practice; covering the key issues in risk perception, assessment and management in dementia care

*Winner in the Health and Social Care category at the 2012 British Medical Association Book Awards*

Risk is central to professional practice, assessment and decision-making in dementia care. Yet theories of risk are often complex and difficult to translate into everyday practice.

This book outlines some of the key issues in risk perception, assessment and management in dementia care in a way that is both practical and accessible to a wide range of practitioners. It develops an approach to risk that promotes choice for people with dementia whilst also acknowledging the complex challenges care providers face. The authors provide an overview of the legislative framework currently in place, and of the ethical dilemmas which may emerge in practice. Frameworks for informed and balanced decision-making are offered, and the importance of including the person with dementia, their family, and care providers in decision-making is emphasised. Throughout the book, case studies are used to illustrate effective negotiation and practical solutions to risk dilemmas in practice.

This book highlights principles of good practice for managing risk in dementia care, and presents a rounded approach that will help practitioners negotiate some of the complex issues this entails.

"This book draws greatly on research undertaken by the various authors identifying risk from the perspective of people with dementia and their carers alongside their general practitioners... This book promotes quality of life for people with dementia and their families to live well; looking at evidence based practice and "situated decision making" and offers models for identifying risks and impacts from a quality of life perspective... Designed for practitioners, this book sits well alongside other books that promote the person centred approach and views of quality of life for people living with dementia." - Aotearoa New Zealand Social Work