More than a diagnosis: Dementia and cancer together (Part 2)

In Part 2 of this two-part series, we continue the conversation on living with both dementia and cancer, exploring the ongoing challenges faced by people living with cancer, their families, and healthcare professionals.  Joined again by Andy Woodhead, who is living with dementia, Rachel Daly-Academy, Lead Admiral Nurse at Dementia UK, and Lorraine Burgess, Macmillan Dementia Nurse Consultant, we take a deeper look at how dual diagnoses impact care, communication, and outcomes.  This episode focuses on the importance of person-centred care in cancer treatment for people with dementia, highlighting the need for clear communication, improved dementia awareness in healthcare settings, and tailored support for individuals and their families. We also explore how services can better adapt to meet the complex needs of individuals navigating both conditions.  Through expert insights and lived experience, this discussion offers practical guidance on improving dementia care in oncology, supporting carers, and ensuring people living with cancer feel understood, respected, and supported throughout their cancer journey.  If you’re interested in dementia and cancer care, person-centred healthcare, or improving communication in clinical settings, this episode provides valuable insights and actionable advice.  Who this episode is for: 🟢 Health and social care professionals 🟢 People affected by cancer 🟢 Anyone interested in accessible and inclusive healthcare Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised. Links from the episode: 🔗 https://www.dementiauk.org This episode supports Macmillan’s commitment to offer more personal support to people affected by cancer and other health conditions. Learn more about Macmillan’s strategy via this link https://www.macmillan.org.uk/about-us.... 🎧 Learn more about the podcast series https://www.macmillan.org.uk/healthca... Chapters 00:00 Intro: Continuing the Conversation (Part 2) 00:23 Recap of Part 1 & Key Themes 01:50 Adapting Services for People with Dementia 02:23 Improving Care: Local vs General Anaesthetic 04:42 Preventing Delirium & Safer Hospital Care 06:37 Personalised Care: What Works in Practice 08:50 Complementary Therapies & Pain Assessment 11:49 Holistic Assessment Before Treatment 13:34 Loneliness Beyond Living Alone 15:07 Why Dementia Awareness Matters for All Staff 18:14 Practical Tips: Communication & Simple Changes 20:23 Hopes for the Future: Training & Resources 22:56 Gaps in Research & Access to Specialist Support 26:01 Support Networks, Advocacy & Community Needs 29:24 Key Takeaways: Ask, Listen & Personalise Care