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Volume 7, Issue 6 (Suppl) J Alzheimers Dis Parkinsonism, an open access journal
ISSN: 2161-0460 Dementia 2017
October 16-18, 2017
ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE & DEMENTIA
October 16-18, 2017 | Rome, Italy
9th International Conference on
Dignity-preserving dementia care: Ametasynthesis
Oscar Tranvag
University of Bergen, Norway
Background: Research indicates the essentiality of dignity as a vital component for quality of life. Estimates show 47 million
people living with dementia worldwide. World Health Organization, United Nations, European Union, UNESCO and
Alzheimer’s Disease International emphasize dignity as an inherent human quality, an essential need and fundamental human
right. Several countries are now preparing for the growing challenges within dementia care by developing national plans,
placing dignity-preservation as a fundamental aspect. However, these documents do not specify the underlying components of
dignity-preserving dementia care, as perceived by healthcare professionals within dementia care practice.
Aim: The aim was to develop a theory-model concerning crucial aspects inherent in dignity-preserving dementia care as
perceived and practiced by nurses and allied healthcare professionals (HCP) documented in previous empirical qualitative
studies.
Method: Noblit and Hare’s meta-ethnography was utilized to synthesize 10 qualitative articles from various cultural contexts,
exploring nurse and allied HCP perception concerning dignity-preserving dementia care practice. Constructing a theoretical
under- standing of the findings, Katie Eriksson’s Theory of Caritative Caring was utilized as theoretical framework.
Results: Advocating autonomy and integrity of each person with dementia, involving hav- ing compassion for the person,
confirming the person’s worthiness and sense of self, as well as creating a humane and purposeful environment, was found a
primary foundation for dignity-preserving dementia care. Balancing individual choices among persons no longer able to make
sound decisions, against the duty of making choices on behalf of the person, was considered dignifying in certain situations –
employ- ing persuation and/or a certain degree of mild restraint in order to meet the person’s essential needs.
Conclusion: Sheltering human worth – remembering those who forget, was identified as a comprehensive motive and core
value within dignity-preserving dementia care.
Oscar Tranvag, J Alzheimers Dis Parkinsonism 2017, 7:6(Suppl)
DOI: 10.4172/2161-0460-C1-033