Living with Dementia: Beyond the Diagnosis – Families, Caregivers, and Society
Symposium Overview
Dementia affects not only individuals but also families, caregivers, and society. This two-speaker session will explore the psychosocial, ethical, and community dimensions of dementia care. By integrating clinical insights with social psychiatry perspectives, the symposium will address caregiver burden, stigma, social exclusion, and innovative community-based strategies. Participants will gain practical approaches to foster dignity, resilience, and inclusion in dementia care.
Talk 1 (Speaker 1: Dr. Sumi Sarasappan)
Title: The Lived Experience of Dementia: Patients and Families
Abstract:
This presentation will explore the lived experience of dementia for patients and their families. Focusing on psychosocial impact, emotional challenges, and family dynamics, the talk will highlight how dementia reshapes relationships, daily routines, and quality of life. Case examples will illustrate strategies to support patients and families, emphasizing the importance of person-centered care and shared decision-making.
Talk 2 (Speaker 2: Dr. Azad Cadinouche)
Title: Community, Caregivers, and Society: Addressing Stigma and Building Support
Abstract:
Dementia care extends beyond the household into communities and social systems. This talk will examine caregiver burden, social isolation, and societal stigma, highlighting evidence-based interventions and community programs that promote inclusion and resilience. Ethical and policy considerations will be discussed, with guidance for creating supportive frameworks that empower caregivers and reduce social exclusion of individuals living with dementia.
Learning Objectives (Combined)
By the end of this symposium, participants will be able to:
1. Understand the psychosocial impact of dementia on patients, families, and caregivers.
2. Identify the challenges of stigma, social exclusion, and caregiver burden.
3. Discuss strategies for community-based, inclusive, and family-centered dementia care.
4. Apply social psychiatry principles to enhance dignity, resilience, and quality of life for older adults living with dementia.
Speaker bio:
Dr. Sumi Sarasappan MD MRCPsych, is a Specialty doctor in old age community mental health team, North London NHS Foundation Trust, London. She has extensive clinical experience in the management of dementia, and is specially interested in the neuropsychiatric interface, social determinants of mental health, and community-based care. She was a consultant psychiatrist in India for six years, and now started in the NHS, UK, which adds on to her cross-cultural experiences in psychiatry.
Dr. Azad Cadinouche MRCPsych, is a Consultant Psychiatrist in Old age psychiatry for the last 13 years. He works in the community with the North London NHS trust since January 2023. He previously worked as a consultant psychiatrist and the Associate Clinical Director for Old age psychiatry in Newham with the East London NHS Foundation Trust.
Dr. Sumi Sarasappan
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