In the 1940s, Carl Rogers introduced the notion of a client-centred or person-centred approach, originally called the ‘non-directive approach’. Over the past several decades, however, we have lost sight of the true intent behind Roger's relational approach, settling instead on well-intended but often paternalistic approaches that place patients or clients at the centre of care, but rarely, if ever, actively involve them in decision-making. This is no more apparent than in the case of persons living with Alzheimer's disease and other related dementias who, due to the stigma and misunderstanding surrounding dementia, are often assumed to lack the capacity to be involved in their own care and the care of others. Drawing on our experience working directly with persons with dementia, family members and professionals, and systematic research on a number of mutual partnership initiatives, the purpose of this paper is to present an alternative approach, one that views persons with dementia as equal partners in the context of dementia care, support and formal services.

No abstract

Findings reveal the power of drama as a vibrant and meaningful means of shifting understandings, images and intended actions of healthcare professions which have the potential to affect the lived experiences, relationships and quality of life of persons with dementia.

Researchers describe how audiences experienced a research-based drama called I'm Still Here; a production about persons and families living with dementia. The research drama was created to help diminish the unnecessary suffering that accompanies the misunderstanding and judgment of persons living with dementia. This article describes the immediate experience of seeing, hearing, and feeling research findings that have been transformed through drama. We explored how participants described the experience of engaging with the drama-what words they used, what was felt, and what lingered after the performance was over. Seven patterns or processes, called patterns of synergy are described: seeing anew; connecting with reverberating truths; placing and relating self; sensing embodied impact, discerning meaningful learning; expanding understanding of perspective; and affirming personal knowing. Each pattern of synergy is considered in light of participant quotes and extant literature. Findings support the promise of the arts in health-related research and education.

Findings demonstrate the possibilities of the arts for knowledge mobilization in changing the culture of dementia care through a process of illuminating new and enduring realizations and transforming actions and practices.