Experiences of viewing self in the mirror for men and women with dementia as perceived by their caregivers: A phenomenological study.

Aim: To explore and discuss the perceptions and experiences of caregivers who rendered care to persons with dementia who viewed themselves in the mirror.

Background: Considerations must be given to caring for those with dementia due to the steady rise of adults 65 and older living with dementia. A literature review revealed limited experiential knowledge concerning aspects of mirror-viewing for persons with dementia.

Who is that stranger in the mirror? The mirror experience for elderly patients with dementia.

Use of the mirror is an everyday phenomenon for most individuals. There seems to be limited evidence-based studies that address mirror viewing and the appropriate use of mirrors for patients with dementia. Using a case study, the purpose of this study is to begin a dialogue with the nursing community on practical nursing interventions and the need for research in this area.