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Dementia as a cultural metaphor
1*Address correspondence to Hannah Zeilig, BA, LCF, University of the Arts, London, 20 John Prince's Street, London W1G 0BJ, UK.
The Gerontologist
|February 15, 2013
Summary
This study examines how cultural narratives shape our understanding of dementia, moving beyond purely biomedical views. It reveals dementia as a socially constructed condition influenced by societal stories and language.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Sociology
- Cultural Studies
Background:
- The category of dementia has historically been dominated by biomedical models.
- Critical gerontology offers valuable perspectives for understanding dementia's societal construction.
- Societies' definitions and constructions of dementia warrant examination through cultural and historical lenses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the cultural and historical influences on the definition and understanding of dementia.
- To interrogate contemporary cultural representations of dementia across various media.
- To explore the social and political dimensions of dementia and its metaphorical framing.
Main Methods:
- Critical analysis of cultural products including films, documentaries, theatre, literature, and news reports.
- Examination of how these representations perpetuate or challenge stereotypes associated with dementia.
- Application of critical gerontology perspectives to deconstruct the sociocultural construction of dementia.
Main Results:
- Dementia is shown to be a sociocultural construct, not solely a biomedical condition.
- Cultural representations significantly influence public perception and understanding of dementia.
- Metaphors used to describe dementia shape consciousness and highlight its diachronic nature.
Conclusions:
- Dementia is a complex, diachronic phenomenon deeply embedded in contemporary life.
- Challenging dominant narratives and stereotypes is crucial for a more nuanced understanding of dementia.
- Societal and political factors play a significant role in how dementia is perceived and experienced.
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