“EVERYBODY HAS A SOUL”: PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA AND NURSING STUDENTS CO-CREATING LIFE STORIES
2024

Co-Creating Life Stories with People with Dementia

Sample size: 23 publication

Author Information

Author(s): Mastel-Smith Beth, Kimzey Michelle, Robinson Amy Ahlbrand, Hermanns Melinda

Primary Institution: The University of Texas Tyler

Hypothesis

The study aims to understand the perceived benefits of nursing students and people with dementia after digitally co-creating life stories.

Conclusion

Co-creation of life stories online is feasible and had positive effects for nursing students and mentors with dementia.

Supporting Evidence

  • Lack of meaning and purpose in life can increase disability and stress.
  • Finding meaning helps people with dementia adjust to their diagnosis.
  • Digital storytelling allows individuals to share their narratives.

Takeaway

Nursing students and people with dementia worked together to tell stories about their lives, which helped both groups feel better and learn from each other.

Methodology

The study involved 10 mentors and 13 students who co-created life stories during seven online meetings and completed qualitative interviews.

Participant Demographics

10 mentors with dementia and 13 nursing students.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.1936

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