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Towards a Theory of Dementia Care: The Interpersonal Process

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  14 November 2008

Tom Kitwood
Affiliation:
Bradford Dementia Research Group, Department of Interdisciplinary Human Studies, University of Bradford, U.K.

Abstract

A description of the microstructure of interpersonal processes is developed, based on the analysis of interaction as a succession of reflexive triadic units. This account can be modified in some aspects so as to provide a detailed theory of the process of dementia care. The theory is particularly relevant to moderate and severe dementia, and to formal care settings. A key concept is that of facilitation. The idea of a ‘culture of dementia’ is explored. Cautiously optimistic conclusions are reached about the possibilities for enabling dementia sufferers to remain in a state of relative well-being.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1993

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