Experiences of viewing self in the mirror for men and women with dementia as perceived by their caregivers: A phenomenological study.

AIM: To explore and discuss the perceptions and experiences of caregivers who rendered care to persons with dementia who viewed themselves in the mirror. BACKGROUND: Considerations must be given to caring for those with dementia due to the steady rise of adults 65 and older living with dementia. A literature review revealed limited experiential knowledge concerning aspects of mirror-viewing for persons with dementia. METHODS: This phenomenological hermeneutic study was analyzed using Ricoeur's theory of interpretation. Eighteen participants who cared for individuals with dementia in the home, and long-term care facilities took part in the study. A semi-structured interview guide with open- ended questions facilitated an open dialogue about their experiences while caring for persons with dementia when they view themselves in the mirror. Two questions guiding the study were: 1) What are caregivers' perceptions of what they see and believe when they observe dementia patients whom they care view themselves in a mirror? 2) How do the caregivers' perceptions of that experience change over time as the dementia worsens? RESULTS: The structural analysis uncovered a considerable difference between the numbers of mirrors available in the homes as compared to the long-term care facilities. Two phenomenological findings were uncovered: 1) decision to look in the mirror and 2) viewing self in the mirror. Six subsequent subthemes; mirror as a tool, wanting to look presentable, self- recognition, self-confirmation seeing another and the latent stage were revealed. CONCLUSION: A mirror assessment is needed for individuals who have dementia.

Who is that stranger in the mirror? The mirror experience for elderly patients with dementia.

Use of the mirror is an everyday phenomenon for most individuals. There seems to be limited evidence-based studies that address mirror viewing and the appropriate use of mirrors for patients with dementia. Using a case study, the purpose of this study is to begin a dialogue with the nursing community on practical nursing interventions and the need for research in this area.