Seeking Meaning in Late Stage Dementia

The author uses case studies to illustrate the effectiveness of two techniques which pastoral caregivers may teach to family carers of dementia patients. In the last stages of dementia, it is important to seek meaning and keep in significant contact as long as possible, both for family members as well as for the dementia patients. After a brief literature review, implications for care theory, practice, and policy are reviewed, and a scientific bias is illustrated. These techniques build on the work of C. G. Jung and James Hillman, utilizing metaphor in non-rational uses of language. It is suggested that pastoral caregivers could teach these techniques to families of this population, in the hope of prolonging meaningful connection with their loved one.