Dementia Bulletin

With thanks to our colleagues from Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust please find the latest bulletin attached. Some articles are freely accessible, others require an Open Athens account.

In this issue:

  • Dementia risk for people who quit smoking in middle age ‘same as someone who never smoked’
  • Improved safeguarding and protections for vulnerable people
  • Advances in science set to transform treatments for people living with dementia
  • Five benefits of getting a diagnosis for dementia – what are they?

For support accessing any of the articles, please contact academic.library@lscft.nhs.uk.

Dementia Bulletin

With thanks to our colleagues from Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust please find the latest bulletin attached. Some articles are freely accessible, others require an Open Athens account.

In this issue:

  • Air pollution raises risk of dementia, say Cambridge scientists
  • AI performs as well as traditional methods at identifying Alzheimer’s risk genes
  • Starting conversations about dementia
  • Pain Reliever Tied to Higher Dementia Risk
  • Peer support groups for younger people launch in Sefton and Liverpool

For support accessing any of the articles, please contact academic.library@lscft.nhs.uk.

Listening to Lived Experiences of Dementia

A new report from the Alzheimer’s Society has captured the voices of people affected by dementia across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The Lived Experiences of Dementia 2025 survey highlights the reality of life with dementia today, from the challenges of getting a timely diagnosis to the emotional and practical toll on families. The findings reveal a system under pressure where too many people still struggle to access the care and understanding they deserve.

By listening to lived experience, the report calls for greater awareness, stronger community support and more compassionate, joined up services.

You can read the full report here: Survey report: Lived experiences of dementia 2025 | Alzheimer’s Society

Record number of dementia diagnoses on NHS

A recent NHS milestone shows 506,549 people in the UK have received a dementia diagnosis, up from 490,163 a year ago—reflecting improved awareness and access to testing under the NHS 10 Year Health Plan.

Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust has also launched MinderCare, an at-home monitoring service using discreet sensors on beds, appliances, and doorways. It helps clinical teams monitor routines, medication responses, and early signs of decline—supporting safer, more responsive care at home.

In the past year, the NHS delivered 330,460 care plans or reviews and 114,447 medication reviews, reinforcing a stronger support system for those with dementia.

Read more here: Record number of dementia diagnoses on NHS | UK Healthcare News

Cochrane Review: Music-Based Interventions for Dementia Show Modest Benefits

A recent Cochrane review evaluated the effects of music-based therapeutic interventions on individuals with dementia. Analysing data from 30 studies involving 1,720 participants, the review found that, compared to usual care, music-based interventions probably lead to slight improvements in depressive symptoms and may reduce overall behavioural problems. However, evidence regarding benefits for agitation, emotional well-being, cognition, and long-term effects remains limited or uncertain.

These findings suggest that while music therapy can offer some benefits for people with dementia, further high-quality research is needed to fully understand its impact.

Read the full review: Cochrane Library – Music-Based Therapeutic Interventions for People with Dementia

Enhancing Lives Through Knowledge: Our New Dementia Collection

We are thrilled to announce the addition of a comprehensive Dementia Collection to our library! This new resource is designed to support individuals, families, and caregivers who are navigating the challenges of dementia.

What You Can Find in Our Dementia Collection:

Educational Books and Guides: Learn about the latest research, treatment options, and caregiving strategies from leading experts in the field.

Personal Stories and Memoirs: Gain insight and empathy through the experiences of those living with dementia and their loved ones.

Activity Resources: Discover activities and programs tailored to engage and support cognitive function for individuals with dementia.

Support Resources for Caregivers: Find practical advice and emotional support to help caregivers manage their responsibilities and well-being.

Visit our library today and start discovering these vital resources. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those touched by dementia.

Library Bulletins

Dementia

The current bulletin for Dementia, produced by Merseycare NHS Foundation Trust, is now available to view and download.

For support accessing any of the articles within the bulletins please contact: academic.library@lscft.nhs.uk

Depression

The current bulletin for Depression, produced by Merseycare NHS Foundation Trust, is now available to view and download.

For support accessing any of the articles within the bulletin please contact: academic.library@lscft.nhs.uk