Managing Uncertainty and Making Decisions in the Context of Dementia

Abstract

This case study explores family relationships, managing uncertainty, and making decisions in the context of dementia. In particular, sources of uncertainty family members may experience and communication strategies commonly reported in the literature for managing uncertainty are explored through the experiences of four people—Peggy, a 74-year-old woman and her three children, Michelle, Amy, and Edward. Michelle and Edward are proximal caregivers, living only miles away from their mother while Amy lives abroad. The challenges of providing care for an aging parent from each of their perspectives as well as conflicts that often arise when navigating new roles as caregivers are highlighted. Overall, this case uses Brashers’ (2001) uncertainty management
theory to frame and understand common familial experiences associated with a diagnosis of dementia. Discussion questions at the end encourage readers to
consider the role of communication in managing uncertainty in a caregiving context.