Impact of episodes of lucidity on people living with dementia and their caregivers: A qualitative study

Background Episodes of lucidity (EL) are generally characterized by a spontaneous and unexpected return abilities previously believed to be lost in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease related dementias (AD/ADRD). Among the myriad implications impact these episodes have on person living ADRD their family caregivers. Family caregivers provide majority support for persons AD/ADRD frequently experience complex grief associated identity relationship changes over course disease. Consequentially, transient connection may substantial conceptualization consciousness care recipient AD/ADRD, approach care, emotional wellbeing. It is also not understood how respond EL. Methods This study utilized descriptive qualitative method employing semi-structured interviews (N = 22) AD/ADRD. Interviews elicited information about participant’s experiences EL, interpretation events, appraisal event themselves experiencing it. Interview data were analyzed using modified, two-phase thematic analysis approach. Results EL commonly conceptualized as illustrative ongoing presence self that they posit at other times concealed due cognitive impairment. Caregivers overwhelmingly reported valued moments offered meaningful loved ones, facilitating acts saying goodbye or making hard decisions. perceived having variable In some situations, providing greater capacity engage. Sometimes, described being accompanied insight regarding deficits upsetting Conclusion We found can both positive negative impacts people Future research needed address ethical considerations surrounding anticipate events.