Dementia

Abstract

The high global prevalence, economic impact of dementia on families, caregivers, and communities, and the associated stigma and social exclusion present dementia as a significant public health challenge. Global as well as Indian data confirms a greater vulnerability of the women patients than their male counterparts. The global health community has recognized the need for action and to place dementia and its care and support services on the public health agenda. Dementia imposes significant physical, mental, and financial stress on caregivers who, again, often are women. In this context, the chapter aims to use capability approach and the concept of “disability paradox” to project dementia as a capability deprivation situation and through comparative analysis of various care models proposes a comprehensive economic care model and plan of action for a developing country like India to ensure dignified quality living for dementia patients and their caregivers.