Exploring Biographical Knowledge Into The Daily Routine...

The focus of this study was to explore how incorporating biographical knowledge into the daily routine and care of an individual with dementia can bring about changes in their behaviors that impact quality of care and quality of life. This chapter assembles the major findings of the study, considers the unique contribution to the research and practice of the care of people with dementia in a long term care setting. The implications for further research discussed as well as limitations of the study considered. Discussion The study makes a unique contribution to the existing literature on biographical approaches in dementia care. The findings suggest a positive effect of this approach for people with dementia in long term care setting. Similar to Life Story Work, Reminiscence Therapy and Meaningful activities this study indicates a number of benefits. First, it promotes increased understanding of the person. It enables nursing home staff to see a person in the context of his whole life. This in turn leads into deeper relationships. The voice of the resident with dementia can be heard when he or she is seen as a person and not just as a patient. The uniqueness of person’s needs and values can only be understood and adequately addressed by knowing his or hers life story. As in case of Rosemary, by learning about her life experiences the staff were able to see not a â€Å"mean and loud woman† but somebody who expresses her fear of water getting into her ears, or attachment to