[Social aspects of dementia]

Calculations of the Austrian Central Statistical Office indicate, that the proportion of elder subjects in relation to the entire inhabitants will increase relevantly. Because of the fact, that diseases with reduced brain function (as well as other diseases) are seen more frequently in a geriatric population, in the future it will become necessary to take suitable social, medical and nursing steps; these steps should provide appropriate health care for most of the afflicted subjects. According to our calculations approximately 87,000 persons suffering from dementia are now living in Austria. The age-pyramid of the population will change and the amount of the geriatric population will increase till the year 2050 about 140% (> or = 65 years) or about 253% (> or = 80 years). Approximately 189,000 people with dementia in the age of 65 years or above have to be attended to special health care. Conditions of cerebral impairment leading to senile dementia will cover the total social surroundings. In our country it will be necessary to incorporate the persons who care for the demented in a comprehensive way.