Slowing dementia symptoms – a qualitative study on attitudes and experiences of general practitioners in Germany

Figures & data

Table 1. Sociodemographic characteristics of the sample (N = 64).

Office type
Joint practice	24 (38%)
Single office	40 (63%)
Office environment
Small towns or rural communities	20 (31%)
Medium-sized towns	24 (38%)
Cities	20 (31%)
Employment type
Practice owner	48 (75%)
Employed	16 (25%)
Age
Mean (range)	54 years (23 years)
Gender
Female	32 (50%)
Previous knowledge and qualifications in the field of dementia
Training in dementia diagnostics and care	11 (17%)
Regular participation in quality circles	9 (14%)
Further geriatric training	7 (11%)

Table 2. Frequently reported intervention approaches in dementia prevention.

Preferred measure	Number of interviewees	Exemplary sample quote
Methodical treatment for co-morbidities	29	‘You have to practice risk management and should treat things like delirium, heart failure and diabetes thoroughly as this clearly reduces dementia symptoms.’ (I-41m)
Physical activation: Physical exercise and sport, physiotherapy and occupational therapy	17	‘The ability to maintain everyday bodily functions goes hand in hand with cognitive function. […] People simply stay fresh and lively for longer.’ (I-15w)
Cognitive training and stimulation	15	‘Methodically training awareness, attention and memory is highly beneficial.’ (I-27m)
Creative and artistic therapy	9	‘If you ask me, the best approach is to activate people’s creativity. Play music, do something artistic that keeps you mentally occupied, or go dancing.’ (I-60w)
Psychosocial support, psychoeducational intervention, psychiatric treatment	8	‘You can train patients how to learn to deal with the disease in a positive way. Inner balance and deep relaxation play a major role.’ (I-35w)
Change in diet	7	‘Diet is given too little attention in its effects on dementia. Diet is a lifestyle matter with a direct impact on your health, especially if you’re a high-risk patient.’ (I-15w)
Intervention involving relatives: Behaviour management, coping therapy, options for relief	20	‘Relatives are often the real influencing factor. You have to do everything you can to keep these people stable and bolster their resilience. Patients also depend on it.’ (I-25w)