Research has shown that stimulating early
memories can have positive effects for persons with
dementia or related disorders and can energize the
relationships between such persons and their families,
friends, and caregivers.
Remembering
Home emphasizes the importance of home in the
lives of memory-challenged adults, offers insight into
the richness and variety of life experiences associated
with the idea of
home, and suggests
ways in which caregivers can encourage reminiscences to
improve the quality of life for those with dementia or
associated diseases.
This volume
advances the goals of affirming the dignity of and
reinforcing personhood in adults with debilitating
memory loss. Environmental gerontologist Habib Chaudhury
draws on research and fieldwork—along with the stories
and actions of persons with dementia and their loved
ones—to discuss dementia and the concept of
self. He shows how recollections of
home can reach persons with compromised mental capacity,
and he shares techniques designed to spark conversation
and stimulate participation in group and one-on-one
activities.
Chaudhury encourages
health care professionals and activity leaders to
embrace a personhood-affirming mode of care and provides
tools and information for nonprofessionals who want to
connect with, understand, and better appreciate people
with dementia.