Trauer und Demenz
Trauerbegleitung als verstehender Zugang und heilsame Zuwendung
People suffering from dementia often experience a profound sense of loss similar to bereavement, as their familiar lives fade away. This emotional turmoil, coupled with societal responses, can lead to trauma and sadness for both the individual and their loved ones. Understanding this sadness is crucial for fostering connections with those affected, as it allows caregivers to draw on their own experiences of grief to empathize with the sufferer. By viewing the dementia journey as a farewell to life, caregivers can treat individuals with respect and uphold their dignity. This perspective challenges the common belief that dementia is merely a medical condition needing treatment. Professionals in elderly care emphasize the importance of a person-centered approach to maintain dignity, as advocated by figures like Tom Kitwood and Naomi Feil. The book integrates insights gained from real interactions with sufferers alongside valuable frameworks for understanding grief and mourning. It also addresses the often-overlooked emotional journey of caregivers and relatives, offering various strategies to support those accompanying dementia sufferers. Additionally, it explores the role of hospices in end-of-life care, highlighting their support for both sufferers and their families, regardless of their own experiences with dementia.