Assessing radiographers’ attitudes toward managing people living with dementia during imaging and radiotherapy: Challenges and adaptive measures

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INTRODUCTION: People living with dementia (PLwD) frequently undergo medical imaging and radiotherapy, but cognitive impairment can create challenges. This study explores radiographers' attitudes, challenges, and adaptive practices when managing PLwD across European settings. METHODS: Radiographers and students working across diagnostic imaging, nuclear medicine, and radiotherapy completed an online survey during the European Federation of Radiographer Societies Research HUB at the European Congress of Radiology, Vienna, Austria (2026). The survey included a 20-item Dementia Attitude Scale (DAS) and items on practice, challenges, and adaptive strategies. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Mann-Whitney U, and Kruskal-Wallis tests to examine DAS score differences. RESULTS: Responses from 123 participants were analysed. Participants demonstrated positive attitudes, with a mean score of 104 (SD = 10.997) and median 103, ranging from 74 to 125. No statistically significant differences were found for gender, age, experience, education level, workplace, or country. Despite positive attitudes, 58% of respondents reported lack of knowledge on adapting examinations, and only 8% reported receiving dementia-specific training. Most frequently reported challenges were insufficient time (53%) and inadequate referral information (40%). Caregivers were recognised as valuable support (94%), but only 79% routinely involve them. Common adaptations included modified communication (73%), while fewer reported slowing their work pace (54%) or environmental adjustments (≤31%), such as reducing sensory input. CONCLUSION: Despite positive attitudes, radiographers demonstrate limited dementia-specific knowledge and inconsistent implementation of person-centred adaptations. Key barriers include limited training, time constraints, and insufficient diagnostic information. Targeted education, improved referral information, and organisational support are needed to strengthen person-centred dementia care in imaging and radiotherapy. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Knowledge on dementia should be integrated into undergraduate radiography curricula, and training in clinical practice is warranted.

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