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Abstract Background Approximately 64,000 people live with dementia in Ireland with an expected increase to 150,000 by 2045. Time to presentation with symptoms of cognitive decline varies between cases. The heterogenous nature of dementia makes estimations of an individualised trajectory of decline challenging. Methods Retrospective analysis was undertaken patients (n=17) of those diagnosed with dementia in 2016 whereby outcomes were discernible from records of the organisation. Data were extracted from the clinic Excel database, Patient Information Management System and Electronic Patient Record portal. Diagnosis was verified using the clinic letter at time of diagnosis. Data was processed using Microsoft Excel. Results Mean age was 77 (range 64-84). Diagnostic breakdown was AD 35.2% (n=6); AD/VaD 41.1% (n=7); VaD 23.5% (n=4). Average survival was 64.8 months (range 16-100). The group averaged 6.2 medicines and 4.3 comorbidities – most common cited were Hypertension (13%) Osteoporosis (8.3%); Hypercholesterolaemia Hypothyroidism 5 hospital and 1 at home. Two live at home, 3 in LTC. Average time living within their own home was 61.1 months (those who died in LTC) and 43.4 (those who died in Hospital). Longest length of admission pre death was 18 days (3-18). Conclusion A diagnosis of dementia affords a level of anxiety with regard to the future. The provision of a roadmap of decline is difficult as the journey of each patient is unique. Within this cohort, patients tended to live at home for long periods of time regardless of their age and despite multiple co morbidities. Where patients were admitted prior to their death, this was usually close to the end of their life. A valuable focus of hope should be placed on enjoying and living the years of possible life after diagnosis.
McHale et al. (Sun,) studied this question.