The moments and memories that shape us: Advancing speech-language pathology practice through the lens of dementia care

PURPOSE: This paper explores the deeper, personal side of dementia care, focusing on connection and the importance of learning from the stories and experiences of people with dementia to inform practice and ways of working. METHOD: A reflective and integrative approach is used to explore the relationship between memory, communication, identity, participation, and citizenship, through the lens of connection. Insights from previous research and reflections on practice are synthesised to identify ways that speech-language pathologists can promote personhood, strengthen relationships, and respond to changes in memory and communication over time and with the progression of dementia. RESULT: Nine key actions are presented that encourage and empower speech-language pathologists to reflect on ways of working and the relational skills needed to hold people with dementia in connection-connection with self, connection with others, and connection with community. The actions span the continuum of care and consider individual and community levels of practice. CONCLUSION: The paper provides direction for the speech-language pathology profession through advocacy, innovation, and partnership to advance creative, empowering, and inclusive ways of optimising moments of connection, quality of life, and meaningful engagement in and beyond dementia care.