Perceptions of staff members on the use of a biographical approach in the care of persons with dementia

Abstract

Biographical approaches offer a promising outlook in the care of persons with dementia. This research study sought to determine the perceptions of members of the interdisciplinary team regarding the use of life story books in the care of persons with dementia. For the purpose of this study, life story books were created for two persons with dementia residing in two psycho-geriatric wards within an institution for the elderly. Consequently these booklets were left available to members of staff involved in their care. Staff members were then interviewed so as to obtain their perceptions on the use of such booklets. Findings indicate that use of life story books led to enhanced person centred care, enhanced understanding of the resident's present behaviour and enhanced communication. Such findings shed light on the importance of using life story work in the care of persons with dementia.