INVESTIGATING FAMILY-BASED DEMENTIA CARE IN THE CHINESE CONTEXT: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Background: Like many other countries, China has an ageing population. Along with this trend, there has been an increase in the number of people suffering from dementia. At present, the traditional familybased dementia care approach is encountering great challenges due to the 4-2-1 family structure probably brought about by the Chinese Government's one child policy. Aim: This review aims to explore suitable model of family-based dementia care in China. Methods: Search strategies were employed to identify relevant studies published from 1980 to 2012. Multiple keywords were used to perform literature searches in various electronic databases. Results: The literature review has examined 31 articles and identified three themes, namely family caregivers-oriented model, activity programmes for person with dementia, and an-inpatient respite programme. Conclusion: Rural communities should focus time and energy on improving social network and public resources by garnering funding from private companies, charity organizations and government institutions.