"The Dynamic Nature of Being a Person": An Ethnographic Study of People Living With Dementia in Their Communities.

ABSTRACT:

Background and objectives

A dementia diagnosis can affect social interactions. This study aims to understand how people living with dementia act as social beings within everyday interactions in their local communities.

Research design and methods

Focused ethnography informed by Spradley's approach to data collection and analysis. Observations in community spaces.

Results

Twenty-nine observations were undertaken in everyday social settings with 11 people with dementia who were part of a longitudinal interview study. Data consisted of 40 hr of observation, and researcher field notes. The overarching theme "the dynamic nature of being a person" encapsulates participants' exhibited experiences in negotiating to attain and sustain an acknowledged place in their communities

SUBMITTER: Birt L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10474587 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature