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Dementia with safeguarding concern — DGM MCQ

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HardDementiaDementia with safeguarding concernDGM

An 81-year-old woman with suspected dementia attends alone. She gives inconsistent answers about medication and has lost weight. Neighbours report she leaves the gas hob on, but she refuses her son's involvement and appears frightened when he is mentioned. What is the most appropriate assessment?

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Correct answer: D — Cognitive assessment plus safeguarding enquiry and assessment of support needs

The cognitive concern is intertwined with nutrition, safety and possible coercion or abuse, so assessment must include safeguarding and social support as well as cognition. Immediate placement without capacity and best-interests processes is inappropriate. Dementia assessment is not limited to diagnosis; risk, autonomy and protection must be considered.

Reference: NICE NG97; Care Act 2014 statutory guidance