This analysis explores caregiver narratives and medical literature on dignity in dementia care, suggesting improvements through the concept of sacred selves.
Key Points
Contrary to medical literature's focus on dignity, family narratives complicate the notion of personhood.
Paid caregivers' practices often challenge established views of dignity and personhood in dementia care.
Utilizing Goffman's concept of sacred selves offers a new perspective to address existing narrative limitations.
Comparative analysis of narratives from medical literature, family caregivers, and observation in memory-care units reveals significant contrasts.