As a focus for academic and professional study, dementia has moved rapidly from the margin to the mainstream during the last decade. Understanding of this distressing condition, its aetiology and recognition, has become much more widespread and sophisticated.

Building on such clinical knowledge, this book challenges the reader

- to think ethically and in a person-centred way about the implications of dementia at a personal, planning and service provision level

- to consider consumer perspectives, not only those of carers but also the much neglected views of individuals with dementia

- to explore less well documented areas such as dementia and Down's Syndrome, depression and early onset dementia.

In conclusion, the book illuminates selected topical developments in service provision such as community care, advocacy and aspects of the built and social care environment.