Which approach focuses primarily on the illness rather than the individual in dementia care?

The medical model is an approach that emphasizes the biological and physiological aspects of diseases, focusing primarily on diagnosing and treating the illness itself. In the context of dementia care, this model tends to prioritize the symptoms and the medical condition of dementia, potentially overlooking the unique qualities, experiences, and needs of the individual person living with dementia.

This approach often involves a more clinical perspective, including medical interventions and medication management, rather than considering factors such as the individual's personal history, preferences, and emotional well-being. While it plays a crucial role in the overall healthcare management of dementia, it does not address the broader, more personal aspects of caregiving that can be vital for improving the quality of life for those affected by the disorder.

Overall, while aspects of the illness are undoubtedly important in dementia care, a more comprehensive approach would involve integrating personal experiences and emotions to support the dignity and individuality of those with dementia, which the medical model alone does not fully encompass.