Tom Kitwood on Dementia: A Reader and Critical Commentary

"Baldwin and Capstick have produced an honest appraisal that is undeniably a reader and critical commentary, and have not shirked from any responsibilities. ... This paperback would serve two distinct strands of readership equally well - those coming afresh to dementia care, or practitioners steeped in the concepts, who are looking to reanalyse and consider future developments. As such, it is difficult to underestimate its value."
Nursing in Practice

• How does Kitwood’s work contribute to our understanding of ‘the dementing process’ and the essentials of quality care?
• How was Kitwood’s thinking about dementia influenced by the wider context of his work in theology, psychology and biochemistry?
• What is the relevance today of key themes and issues in Kitwood’s work?

Almost ten years after Kitwood’s death, it is now timely to review his contribution to the field of dementia studies in the light of more recent developments and from a critical and interdisciplinary perspective. The introduction to this Reader summarises and problematises some of the key characteristics of Kitwood’s writing. Each of the four themed sections begins with a commentary offering a balanced consideration of the strengths of Kitwood’s work, but also of its limitations and oversights. The Reader also includes a biography and annotated bibliography.

Tom Kitwood on Dementia: A Reader and Critical Commentary is key reading for students of social work or mental health nursing, with an interest in dementia care. Professionals working with people with dementia will also find it invaluable.

Additional Contributors: Habib Chaudhury, Deborah O’Connor, Alison Phinney, Barbara Purves, Ruth Bartlett.