Reflections on My Experience in a Dementia Care Setting
To gain a firsthand understanding of living in a dementia care facility, I arranged to be admitted as a “resident”. I presented myself as having mild dementia and needing temporary accommodation while my sister was out of town. During admission, I acted withdrawn and confused to fit the role.
I faced a lack of exercise and meaningful activities, only being offered bingo or card games. I observed that residents spent hours being inactive, leading to a sense of restlessness and helplessness. The mindset of incapability among residents added to the feeling of imprisonment.
The restriction of movement, wearing a mandatory alarm bracelet, and limited food options contributed to the feeling of being cut off from the outside world. This experience triggered strong emotive reactions in my wife and sister, highlighting society’s fear of long term care facilities.
This experience raises important questions about how to accommodate individuals needing assistance without depriving them of freedom and choice, and how to create a supportive environment for persons living with dementia.
