Mrs Jones and Sarah

Please tell us your thoughts about the following scenario. Once you have had a think about this, please add your comments below. This scenario was part of a competition we held earlier this year titled ‘The Dignity Debate’. You can view some of the responses, including winners, on the ‘Events’ page under ‘Previous Competitions’. We welcome your views!

Scenario:

Mrs Jones has had alopecia for several years. She is completely bald, apart from a small patch of hair; she wears a synthetic wig. She has several of these for different occasions. Mrs Jones is now living with dementia and often forgets to wear her wig. She resides in a care home and relies on staff to ensure she is wearing it. Mrs Jones’ daughter completed ‘This is me’ documentation for her mother. She informed staff verbally and in writing of what has always been important to her mother; Mrs Jones is a devoted Christian woman who attends church every Sunday. She is always well-dressed and likes to wear nice dresses, her favourite pearls, and earrings. She always wears make-up and a synthetic wig, even when alone indoors. She has always taken pride in her appearance.

One morning Sarah, a care assistant is helping Mrs Jones to get dressed for church. Today is a special day; it is her grandson’s christening. All the family are meeting her there.

Mrs Jones selects a dress from the wardrobe from the choices Sarah shows her. She is assisted to put it on. Sarah then applies her make-up. Mrs Jones chooses her favourite shade of lipstick. She

checks her appearance in the mirror, smiles and thanks Sarah. Sarah then attempts to assist with the pearls and synthetic wig.

Mrs Jones stops her, saying, “Oh no, not today”.

Sarah reminds Mrs Jones that she has always worn these.

She still declines.