The aim of the research in the thesis is to understand how individuals with dementia living at home experience their illness and how they perceive and understand the initial changes, and how they cope with them. In the theoretical part, I presented the concept of dementia, how it is understood through various disciplines. It explores the term early stage of dementia justified by various authors and outlines the changes characteristic in the early stage of dementia, the needs of individuals with dementia, and the role and importance of social workers. The research that provided the answers is qualitative and empirical. I included six people with dementia and a relative who cared for her mother with dementia in the non-probability convenience sample. Results showed that people with dementia mostly experience changes negatively. The first changes they recognize are memory problems, difficulties with orientation in space and time, attention problems, and changes in emotions and behavior. To cope with these changes, they develop practical self-help strategies and internal coping mechanisms that help them manage distress. While they are grateful for the support they receive, they still wish to maintain independence and control over their lives. As the disease progresses, they express a desire for their needs to be understood and met. There is a need for greater awareness and education of professionals and the public about how people experience dementia. A holistic approach is essential, incorporating education, information-sharing, workshops, self-help groups in local communities, and psychosocial support through social work centers to effectively support people with dementia and their relatives.
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