Interactions between six participants with a dementia
syndrome were observed and recorded across an 8-week therapeutic
group, using audio and video equipment. Sessions were analysed
using ‘template analysis’ methodology.Three codes were used to
describe participants’ behaviour and discussion in the group.These
described discussion of participants’ experience of dementia, their
responses to the group itself and ways in which participants used the
group to fulfil their own needs. Subordinate codes illustrated these
levels of participation. Participants offered practical and emotional
support and listened, reflected and responded to others, whilst also
using the group to meet their own needs. Group development was
generally consistent with that of small groups for people without a
dementia.
The findings raise questions about the abilities that may be retained
by people with a mild or moderate degree of dementia and challenge
assumptions about ‘lack of insight’, and the positioning of people
with a dementia as passive.The importance of providing contexts in
which people with a dementia can express their abilities and
reciprocate within relationships is discussed. Arguments for the
efficacy of psychotherapeutic support for people with a dementia, and
the inclusion of their perspectives in both research and practice are
also considered.