A New Approach to Dementia: Examining Attention Impairment is one of the first books to centre attention impairments rather than memory loss in the study of the syndrome.
Professor Andrea Tales, a personal chair in neuropsychology and dementia research at Swansea University, is the lead author of the book and said this focus could lead to better outcomes for patients.
Professor Tales said: “Working with current and former students has been a privilege and always an enjoyable experience.
“This book builds on our first volume, which explored sensory and perceptual changes and was co-produced with people living with dementia and their caregivers.
“I’m proud that our collaborative approach continues to grow, helping us shine a light on aspects of dementia that are too often overlooked.”
Drawing from a growing body of research, the authors argue that changes in attention are common across different forms of dementia and that these changes could support earlier identification, more accurate diagnosis and improved care.
The book also examines how attentional symptoms are often missed by current diagnosis pathways that rely heavily on memory testing.
It covers theory, clinical practice and first-hand experiences, with a chapter written from a carer’s perspective.
Co-author Dr Clive Thomas, programme manager for the Strategic Programme for Mental Health at NHS Wales Performance and Improvement, said: “Working with Professor Andrea Tales from my professional doctorate onwards has been invaluable.
“Our collaboration has continued over many years, driven by a shared belief in the need for system change and in exploring under‑examined aspects of dementia.”
The book is published by Taylor & Francis and is available now.
A third volume from the group, centred on technology and dementia, is already in development.
