Observations on strategies used by people with dementia to manage being assessed using validated measures: A pilot qualitative video analysis

Abstract

Background: Analysis of video data was conducted of validated assessments with people with dementia as part of a feasibility control study comparing a lifelong learning service with other dementia services. Objective: The aim was to provide a new perspective on what occurs during the assessment process when using validated measures in research and explore which strategies people with dementia use to manage their participation. Design: Video recordings were made of pre- and postintervention assessments of people with dementia. An initial pilot analysis of 10 videos of the pre-assessments was conducted. Setting: Lifelong learning services and other dementia services situated in six municipalities in Northern Denmark took part in this study, with 55 people with dementia participating. Results: The themes identified were: ‘State of mind’ and ‘Mental resources’, showing how these aspects influenced the participants' reactions and the strategies they used. Discussion: The results are discussed in relation to how individual personality traits influence the assessment process and the way a person with dementia will manage the situation. Conclusion: The assessment situation is complex and can be influenced by the strategies adopted by individuals with dementia as they try to manage the assessment process. Patient or Public Contribution: People with dementia supported the decision-making for the choice of validated measure used within this study.