Priya Ahmed

I feel that based on some of Mrs Jones’ actions, she has the mental capacity and awareness to make her own choices and has a right to her own autonomy. She has shown this as she is able to pick her favourite lipstick, and is able to choose a dress she likes; the wig and pearls were also a regular part of her routine so I feel she would very well know that she normally does wear them. However, when Sarah tries to put on the wig for Mrs Jones, it’s evident that she does not wish to wear it that day for whatever reason and I feel her wishes should be respected as she may be knowingly deciding this for her own reasons respectfully. Although Mrs Jones has dementia, there may be instances where she has the ability and capacity to still make some decisions or has some awareness especially if it is with things that have been routine for many years. Therefore, Sarah should allow Mrs Jones to go without the wig, or perhaps it be taken with her should she change her mind on arrival to the Church.

However, as Mrs Jones is someone who is well-dressed and takes pride in her appearance, it is important that her dignity is respected and that her routine is kept as normal as it can be, but as there is only 5 minutes until they have to leave for Church it may cause Mrs Jones distress and cause delay, and in that moment if Mrs Jones is adamant and completely refusing to wear the wig, she should not be forced and this in it’s own right keeps Mrs Jones’ dignity in my opinion. She is still dressed well, so she is looking presentable and if they cannot resolve the issue it may be best that Mrs Jones goes to Church as she is and if Mrs Jones, or her daughter have an issue, before any photos or anything is taken perhaps they can put on the wig once they have arrived at the Church if there is a change of mind from Mrs Jones or if Mrs Jones’ daughter is able to approach the situation in a way that she can wear the wig still.