Communicative intentions and liminal signs in interaction with people living with late-stage dementia

Abstract

This study examines the challenges caregivers face in interpreting the bodily behaviors of individuals with late-stage dementia as interactional signals. People with late-stage dementia often exhibit ambiguous, non-verbal conduct, referred to as liminal signs, which are not immediately recognized as communicative. Drawing on Goffman's distinction between “giving” and “giving off” information and Grice's theory of communicative intentions, we analyze interaction sequences where caregivers may or may not notice and respond to these signs. The findings highlight the potential for embodied conduct, such as non-verbal vocalizations and ge2stures, to serve as communicative signals. Three empirical examples show how contextual cues can help caregivers recognize these conduct as meaningful contributions, positioning the person with dementia as a partner in interaction and providing an opportunity for their agency to be expressed and their voice to be heard. The study therefore has theoretical implications for understanding liminal signs and practical implications for improving communication in dementia care.