OBJECTIVES: Dignity of patients with early-stage dementia (PwESD) is a core value of person-centered care. To evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention programs targeted at this population, a reliable tool that would measure dignity in PwESD is needed. Based on a qualitative analysis of how PwESD perceive and experience dignity, this study aims to determine the adequacy of the Czech version of the Patient Dignity Inventory (PDI-CZ) for this patient population. METHOD: The sample from two outpatient clinics in Czechia included home-dwelling individuals aged 60 years or older with mild dementia. In the first interview (T1), there were 21 respondents; 10 of whom participated in the second interview (T2) that was conducted after 12 months. The qualitative material was analyzed using a deductive approach based on the PDI-CZ domains. RESULTS: Thematic analysis shows that the PwESD thematized all domains of the PDI-CZ in their interviews and their views of dignity were stable over time. Some experiences were not considered in the PDI-CZ (such as lowered support of the society, lowered ability to advocate for oneself, or feeling of not suitable living conditions). CONCLUSION: When developing a revised version of the tool, items that reflect missing views of dignity should be included.

Centre for Research and Science Faculty of Health Sciences Palacky University Olomouc Olomouc Czech Republic

Department of Neurology University Hospital Olomouc Czech Republic

Olomouc University Social Health Institute Sts Cyril and Methodius Faculty of Theology Palacky University Olomouc Olomouc Czech Republic

The Department of Christian Education Sts Cyril and Methodius Faculty of Theology Palacky University Olomouc Olomouc Czech Republic

References provided by Crossref.org