Managing Identity While Living With Alzheimer's Disease

Although any illness can negatively affect the self, Alzheimer's disease poses a special threat. Based on interviews with nine Canadians diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's disease, and adopting a symbolic interactionist perspective, this study examines the impact of the illness on identity. Findings indicate that, given the necessary resources, persons with Alzheimer's can live meaningful, purposeful lives and creatively manage to protect and preserve identity. In contrast to previous research, participants did not reveal a great deal of concern about potential loss of self.