[Family-centered care: A model for approaching dementia care in the community]

Along with ageing population, there has been an increase in the prevalence and incidence of chronic and debilitating conditions, such as dementia which, in turn, has increased the demands for long term care in the community. This is challenging current health care systems that wish to provide an appropriate response whilst intensify its efforts to contain costs. This paper, through a critical reflection, argues for an integrative, positive, and systemic care approach, focused not only on the person with dementia but also on the entire family unit. For this purpose, it approaches the impact that dementia has for the family, and therefore for Primary Health Care professional. In addition care strategies aimed at strengthening the whole family system are suggested.