Resistance, Resilience, and Change: The Person and Dementia

The focus of this article is the person in the experience of dementia. Narrative is highlighted in the context of narrative theology, and upholding the identity of the person with dementia through spiritual reminiscence and programs of art, music, pastoral care, and prayer and meditation. These provide the basis for critique of current practices and challenges of providing person-centred care. This article addresses issues of resistance to seeing the person in dementia and possibilities for resilience in dementia through rementia. The article outlines some changes in care provider practices that make for greater quality of life for those with dementia, acknowledging the crucial impact of the quality of relationship between the care provider and the person with dementia.