Defining Dignity

A Means to Creative Interventions

Abstract

Dignity is a word often used to describe the approach to care for persons with Alzheimer's disease and related dementia. However, there does not seem to be a clear or common understanding of how this core value is translated in day-to-day care. Illuminating the nuances of what dignity means is essential if we are to embody this principle not only in our words, but more important, in our deeds. Dignity is a principle that resonates with many layers of depth and meaning. The principle of dignity is universal, but the approaches to care and interventions must be consciously selected to uniquely support the dignity of each person, on the basis of their abilities and needs. The framework and foundation for dignified approaches must be understood primarily through the experience of the diagnosed person, as they are now.