Sammanfattning
This article aims to explore how nursing can support a sense of continuity and identity in
patients with advanced dementia disease, living in nursing homes. Fourteen carers and managers in
two nursing homes in northern Norway were interviewed. The analysis and discussion are based on
the theoretical concepts of identity, continuity and person-centred nursing. This study concludes that
an awareness of an individual's earlier life may be practically expressed in person-centred nursing,
and may support continuity in the patient´s life even after moving into the nursing home.
Documentation, professional development, and the organisation of the nursing home are important
elements to ensure this awareness. Whilst on-going competence building in the nursing home is
necessary, the value of local knowledge among the staff is also emphasized. Before a person moves
to a nursing home it would be useful for staff to visit the person's home, gather information from the
person and his or her family, and establish a relationship that can give a sense of security. In the
nursing home, a feeling of belonging and identity can be enhanced through daily activities, personal
care and mealtimes. The importance of reinforcing a sense of belonging in patients with dementia
disease is highlighted.