Dementia in forensic mental health settings: a scoping review

Globally there is an increasing ageing forensic population, many of whom have early onset age-related health needs and present with several dementia risk factors. The complexity of this emerging challenge has significant implications for forensic mental health services (FMHS) yet remains unexplored. This paper offers the first (scoping) review focused on dementia in FMHS specifically. International peer-reviewed literature referencing dementia in FMHS was mapped and analysed to inform future research and innovation. Nineteen sources were identified, and four categories and two subcategories were generated, covering topics such as high prevalence of risk factors, issues with dementia identification, suggestions for interventions, and concerns regarding the suitability of FMHS for this population. Findings expose key barriers to appropriate care whilst identifying the overrepresentation of dementia in FMHS. Given the ethical implications of forensic mental healthcare, there is an urgent need for research to explore current care provision. Future research should focus on the development of dementia-friendly interventions and environments to ensure this population receives equitable healthcare that upholds their inherent rights and dignity.