Does class, ethnicity or intellect affect the dementia pathway?

Beth Johnson Foundation (Stoke-on-Trent)

BJF explored the question “Does class, ethnicity or intellect affect the dementia pathway?” Members of the group had found that their different life experiences had a bearing on their own dementia pathway. The group used their own experiences to generate a long list of questions, which they narrowed down to five by reaching a consensus via discussion. Further focus groups took place, and the themes that emerged were discussed as a whole group – which led to findings and recommendations.

The group found that class, intellect and ethnicity all have a bearing on the dementia pathway. They acknowledged that the dementia pathway is different for everyone. However, there are additional impacts of class, intellect and ethnicity in terms of how people adjust to their diagnosis and how

others support them. An individualised response is needed and assumptions should be avoided.