出版社：Katedra za društvene i humanističke znanosti u medicini Medicinskog fakulteta Sveučilišta u Rijeci
摘要：Alzheimer’s dementia (AD) is a neurodegenerative, progressive disease of heterogeneous aetiology, characterised by cognitive impairment, entailing severe difficulties in the daily functioning of persons affected by the disorder and requiring the assistance of non-formal caregivers. Research showed that an early diagnosed AD may increase medical and developmental outcomes for patients. This paper aims to underscore the importance of early intervention from the diagnostic and rehabilitation standpoint and highlight the pivotal role of family members who act as non-formal caregivers of persons affected by the disease. Early intervention involves early diagnostic and rehabilitation interventions, including support programmes for family members as non-formal caregivers. Support networks contribute to the quality of care for patients and non-formal caregivers. In terms of support, recognising the needs of family caregivers is essential for ensuring timely and effective formal support mechanisms. As favourable aspects of AD are rarely evoked, the role of helping professions is to assist in identifying opportunities and supporting patients and their families accordingly.
关键词：Alzheimer’s dementia; early intervention; family; non-formal caregivers
