A narrative analysis of poetry written from the words of people given a diagnosis of dementia

Abstract

This study is underpinned by social constructionist epistemology, which points to the socially constructed character of our worlds, in that we co-create and are co-created by (including experience and identity) our social realities. Through narrative analysis of some poems from the words of people given a diagnosis of dementia, this study engaged in the process of meaning-making in relation to Self-construct and the wider social world. Some narratives evidenced speakers’ lack of agency over their experiences, not because of the ‘dementia’ but due to treatment and care contexts. Some narratives provided instances in which others positioned speakers into identity constructions contradictory to their life-long Self-constructs. Other narratives demonstrated that, through acknowledging and supporting ‘personhood’, speakers retained a sense of well-being and purpose in their social worlds. It is hoped that focusing on the words of individuals given dementia diagnoses, away from predominant bio-medical discourses, may facilitate professionals’ continuous reflection and person-centred practice.