Dementia: towards a perceptual control theory perspective

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the psychosocial experiences of people living with dementia using a perceptual control theory (PCT) perspective. Design/methodology/approach Conceptual paper. Findings The paper suggests that people with dementia may control their perceptions by using four modes of control: control, automatic, passive observation and imagination. Research limitations/implications The paper highlights how a perceived sense of “too little” or “too much” control can create psychological and emotional distress, as people with dementia seek to respond to the changing contextual circumstances of their lives. However, more work needs to be done to develop specific PCT informed strategies that may serve the goal of helping people who are living with dementia to maximise their functioning and alleviate their distress. Originality/value The potential benefits of adopting a PCT perspective to understand the experiences of people living with dementia have only been explored in a relatively superficial way. This paper is a first attempt to develop a more considered analysis.