Abstract
Dementia is a term used to describe a collection of symptoms that include problems with memory,
self-care, reasoning and communication. Care interventions that focus on preserving people’s
dignity and identity are therefore essential. Using Driscoll’s reflective model to guide critical
thinking, this article reflects on the use of one intervention, namely life story work, to promote
person-centred care for people with dementia. It explores the value or effect of life story work for
healthcare staff, the person with dementia and family members. It also highlights best practice
guidelines that are useful to consider to promote its optimal success as an intervention in dementia
care, for example, instigating it early in the dementia journey and embedding it in a supportive
culture. It is important to highlight to nursing students the many positive aspects of incorporating
life story work into practice.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 25-29 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Nursing Older People |
Volume | 29 |
Issue number | 5 |
Publication status | Published - 31 May 2017 |
Keywords
- dementia
- life histories
- life story work
- older people
- Person-centred care