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Partnering for care: the evidence and the expert
Janet K Pringle Specht1, Richard Taylor, Ann L Bossen
1The John A. Hartford Center of Geriatric Nursing Excellence, The University of Iowa College of Nursing, Iowa City 52242-1121, USA. janet-specht@uiowa.edu
Journal of Gerontological Nursing
|March 31, 2009
Summary
Individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD) retain self-awareness and can identify needs. Involving them in care planning ensures personalized support, valuing their perspective for better outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
Background:
- Alzheimer's disease (AD) research often overlooks the cognitive and emotional experiences of individuals living with the condition.
- Self-awareness and the ability to articulate personal needs are frequently preserved in individuals with AD, contrary to common assumptions.
- Current care planning models for AD may not adequately incorporate the perspectives of those directly affected, leading to suboptimal interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To emphasize the importance of incorporating the perceptions and self-identified needs of individuals with Alzheimer's disease into their care plans.
- To advocate for person-centered programming that respects the preserved self-awareness and autonomy of individuals with AD.
- To highlight the necessity of joint planning in the development of care strategies for Alzheimer's disease.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on Alzheimer's disease care and patient involvement.
- Analysis of the concept of self-awareness and self-identification of needs in the context of AD.
- Incorporation of insights from individuals with dementia, such as co-author Richard Taylor, regarding their experiences with care planning.
Main Results:
- Strong evidence supports the maintenance of self-awareness and the capacity of individuals with AD to identify their own needs.
- Individualized, person-centered programming is essential and achievable when the perceptions of those with AD are valued and included.
- The literature frequently omits the crucial aspect of joint planning, thereby excluding the person with dementia from their own care development.
Conclusions:
- Care plans for individuals with Alzheimer's disease must be co-developed, integrating preserved self-awareness and self-identified needs.
- Effective care should focus on supportive and educational programs that maintain self-esteem, preserve abilities, manage behavioral symptoms, and promote health.
- Prioritizing the inclusion of the individual with dementia in care planning is paramount for ethical and effective Alzheimer's disease management.
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