Abstract
This study was conducted to evaluate residual ability by which reality is recognized by the elderly with moderate to severe dementia. The authors held conversations with 5 patients with Alzheimer's disease aged 65 years or older while giving them care. We then analyzed their remarks by a qualitative and inductive approach.
The moderately or severely demented elderly subjects were confident in expressing their feelings and emotions to others, which was suggested by the behavior “laughing in embarrassment”, “excusing and glossing over”, and “making decisions by themselves”, and showed residual ability in approaching others in an attempt to establish a relationship, which was suggested by the behavior“ laughing loud and long”, “asking the same questions repeatedly”, “showing consideration and concern”, “insisting by altering the tone”, and“initiating actions”. The core concept of this residual ability is their recognition of others, which was observed in the interaction of the demented elderly with others.
The description of the residual ability revealed by this study may serve as a guide for caregivers to note residual ability in the elderly and assist them in maintaining it.
