Narrative in Older People Care—Concepts and Issues in Patients with Dementia

Abstract

Medical sciences in their classic approach focus on objectively measured dimensions of human functioning and its disorders. Therefore, they are often far removed from the unique identity, experiences and needs of older people. The solution to this type of focusing on the biological, psychological or social dimension of the life of older people may be the inclusion of the narrative in the daily practice of medical care. Narrative medicine supports the development of a holistic approach to care that allows older people to present their own life story, which helps to recognize their uniqueness and to show a genuine interest in the narrative. Attention is increasingly drawn to the fact that the narrative of older people should be recognized and taken into account when planning and providing care in institutions, including long-term care facilities (LTCFs). Despite the fact that LTCFs are often attended by people with multiple diseases and with cognitive impairment, the recognition, respect and maintenance of personal identity should constitute the foundation of caring activities. The basic premise of narration is the recognition that the development of identity does not stop at any age but continues throughout life, and that narrative is an important form of self-expression. The aim of this paper is to present selected issues related to the practice of narrative medicine in caring for older people.