From symptoms to citizenship: A critical reading of the perceived value of arts and culture in a dementia context

In this chapter, we explore narratives surrounding the value and perception of arts and culture in the lives of people with dementia - unpicking how the (bio)medical model of dementia has influenced this area and continues to permeate into understandings of arts and culture in this context. We look not only to existing literature surrounding the provision and access to the arts for people with dementia but also to barriers to access that are created through the assumptions and stereotypes held about dementia. We also present our critique through engaging with our own reflexive accounts of working in this field as researchers with an inherent interest in how the arts can support agency and uphold meaningful experiences in the everyday lives of people living with dementia. We draw on podcast episodes and artworks created with people living with dementia to position the ways in which the arts can support active citizenship and agency.