Northern Ireland Audit of Dementia Care in Acute Hospitals 2015

Approximately 21-29% of adults aged over 70 years admitted to Northern Ireland hospitals have dementia. Admission to hospital can be a stressful and distressing experience for these patients.

This audit report examines the quality of dementia care in all 12 acute hospitals in Northern Ireland, from the patient’s admission to discharge. Data collated in the report considered a wide range of elements of dementia care including staffing levels, staff training, nutrition, ward environments, discharge and palliative care.

The report identifies areas of good practice in dementia care, highlights key areas that require change and provides recommendations for improvement.