What matters most: Exploring the everyday lives of people with dementia

Authors Jacoba Huizenga, Aukelien Scheffelaar, Nienke Bleijenberg, Jean-Pierre Wilken, John Keady, Tine van Regenmortel
Published in Int J Geriatr Psychiatry
Publication date 2023
Research groups Proactive care for older people living at home, Participation, Care and Support
Type Article

Summary

"Objectives: Research on what matters most to people with dementia is crucial for developing tailored interventions and support. This study explored how people with dementia experience their everyday lives, providing insight into what is important to them to live the best they can at home. Methods: Inspired by a phenomenological approach, open interviews were conducted with 15 people with dementia, supplemented by home tours and walking interviews. Data collection included one to three sessions per participant. Data were analysed using descriptive content analysis and followed the phases of open, axial, and selective coding. A co‐researcher group of seven people with dementia was consulted during the analysis to help interpret the emergent findings. Findings: Six dimensions of what matters most in everyday life were identified: 1) Engaging in meaningful activities, which included routines, household chores, leisure, day activities, and volunteering or work; 2) Keeping a sense of connection, in relationships within the home, with family, friends, groups, and the neighbourhood; 3) Having a sense of belonging, which included attachments inside and outside the home, and to cherished objects; 4) Connecting to self, which included the ability to reflect on past experiences, live in the present moment and anticipate the future; 5) Adjusting to ongoing changes, which included alterations in sensory perceptions, perceptions of the physical environment, and navigating shifts in interpersonal dynamics; 6) Being open to help and support, from professionals, community and society. Conclusions: For people with dementia, everyday life is a continuous balancing act between what matters most and what can be achieved daily. This is not only related to dementia but is also embedded in the wider perspective of life history, relational networks, and the physical environment. This study highlights the importance of identifying what matters most to people with dementia to provide person‐centred support."

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On this publication contributed

  • Jacoba Huizinga | PhD Candidate| Participation Care and Support
    Jacoba Huizenga
    • PhD candidate
    • Research groups: Participation, Care and Support, Proactive care for older people living at home
  • Nienke Bleijenberg PhD | Professor | Research group Chronic Diseases
    Nienke Bleijenberg
    • Professor
    • Research group: Proactive care for older people living at home
  • Jean-Pierre Wilken
    • Professor
    • Research group: Participation, Care and Support

Language English
Published in Int J Geriatr Psychiatry
Year and volume 2023 e5983
Key words citizenship, dementia, everyday, home tours, life story, neighbourhood, participatory research, psychosocial, social relationships, time

Jacoba Huizenga

Jacoba Huizinga | PhD Candidate| Participation Care and Support

Jacoba Huizenga

  • PhD candidate
  • Research groups: Participation, Care and Support, Proactive care for older people living at home