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Updated: Jun 27, 2026

Using Retinal Imaging to Study Dementia
Published on: November 6, 2017
Multiple views reveal the complexity of dementia diagnosis
Andrew L Robinson1, Carolyn G Emden, Jean A Elder
1School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia. andrew.robinson@utas.edu.au
Objective:
To reveal views about dementia diagnosis derived from a larger study of information needs of carers of people with dementia in Tasmania, Australia.
Methods:
Over 100 participants, including family carers, health professionals and dementia service personnel, met as discrete focus groups. Data pertinent to dementia diagnosis were segregated and subjected to across-group comparative analysis.
Results:
The term dementia held connotations of stigma and futility, despite stated benefits of having a diagnosis. General practitioners were regarded as pivotal but having inadequate diagnostic and treatment options. While most health professionals advocated a longitudinal diagnostic process, this created considerable stress for family carers who sought a speedy process. Without a diagnosis, some dementia-specific services were undeliverable.
Conclusion:
Dementia diagnosis is steeped in deep-rooted difficulties and stressful implications, compounded by carers' differing needs and interests. Better understanding between care providers of their conflicting and consistent views could contribute to better dementia care.
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