This report provides evidence on the quality of dementia care provided on general wards in hospitals across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Using evidence received from carers and nurses on the quality of care provided the key areas of need that are not being met are discussed. These include:

• understanding dementia
• the provision of person-centred care
• communication
• dignity, and
• problems with discharge.

The final chapter puts forward recommendations to improve dementia care, shorten the length of stay and reduce costs.

Download: Counting the cost: caring for people with dementia on hospital wards