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Managing identity while living with Alzheimer's disease
1Mount Saint Vincent University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. hazel.macrae@msvu.ca
Qualitative Health Research
|November 27, 2009
Summary
Individuals with early-stage Alzheimer's disease (AD) can maintain a strong sense of self and live purposefully. With adequate resources, people with AD creatively protect their identity, contrary to concerns about loss of self.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Alzheimer's disease (AD) significantly impacts an individual's sense of self.
- Previous research often highlights concerns about identity loss in AD patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the impact of early-stage Alzheimer's disease on identity.
- To explore how individuals with AD perceive and manage their self-concept.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study using in-depth interviews.
- Symbolic interactionist perspective adopted for analysis.
- Involved nine Canadians diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's disease.
Main Results:
- Participants, with necessary resources, actively preserve and protect their identity.
- Individuals with AD can lead meaningful and purposeful lives.
- Contrary to expectations, participants expressed minimal concern about potential loss of self.
Conclusions:
- Early-stage Alzheimer's disease does not inevitably lead to a loss of self.
- Access to resources enables individuals with AD to maintain a strong identity.
- Focusing on preserving identity and purpose is crucial for quality of life in early-stage AD.
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