Dignity-Preserving Dementia Care in Old Age Homes in Nepal: Healthcare Professionals' Perspectives.

Abstract

In recent decades, there has been growing interest in research on dignity in care for persons with dementia living in high-income countries. In contrast, such research remains limited in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed to explore healthcare professionals' perceptions of the critical qualities inherent in dignity-preserving care for persons with dementia living in old age homes in Nepal. Using a hermeneutical approach, we conducted qualitative in-depth interviews with eleven healthcare professionals. Our analysis revealed that participants' understanding of dignity-preserving care was rooted in their ontological and cultural belief of 'Acknowledging the equal worth of each human being'. Grounded in this foundational belief, critical elements of dignity-preserving care practices focused on 'sheltering the self-esteem and promoting a meaningful everyday life of persons with dementia'. These practices involved 'being respectful and protecting the self-identity of each person'; 'recognising the need for being a person who people listen to'; 'showing regard for each person's efforts and contributions in life'; 'safeguarding the person's sense of belonging', and; 'facilitating personally valued activities', and were considered as critical qualities of dignity-preserving care. The study provides valuable insights for improving care strategies and informing policy developments for dignity-preserving care for persons with dementia.