Exploring care of persons with dementia and significant violence risk in Victoria: A Delphi study.

Abstract

Background: Significant violence associated with dementia is uncommon, though care for these people is an important issue. This group is heterogeneous and encompasses people with no forensic history to those living in forensic and custodial settings. It is expected that over the next 40 years, the Australian population aged over 65 years will double, and persons over 85 years will increase threefold. This ageing population will likely mean increased persons living with dementia who may enact significant violence and place increased pressure on services to provide care. To date, there is no research on their specific care needs in Victoria.

Objectives: This study aimed to explore the current service landscape for persons with dementia and significant violence risk in Victoria through a small group of medical practitioners with expertise in dementia, psychiatry of old age, and forensic psychiatry.

Methods: A modified Policy Delphi study was used to interview 12 medical practitioners with backgrounds including Forensic Psychiatry, Psychiatry of Old Age, General Practice, and Geriatric Medicine.

Findings: The research identified five key recommendations to enhance service provision for this population in Victoria, including recommendations for specific care pathways, service agreements, physical environment considerations, educational needs, and consideration of a specialised service.