EN
The concept of dehumanization has received quite a lot of attention in recent decades. Its various forms have inconsistent conceptualization, but they also overlap to some extent. Researchers have argued that some groups are more vulnerable to dehumanization than others. One such group is people living with dementia. In this overview, a more comprehensive view of the dehumanization of this extremely vulnerable group by identifying three main attributes is presented. Dementia is a disease which does not have obvious physical signs and affects mainly people aged 65 and over. Therefore, stereotypes related to old age are likely to be activated first. Another attribute is patient status. In the health care and social care facilities, there is a relatively widespread type of communication that neglects individuality and contribute to the homogenization and objectification of all patients with the same diagnosis. The diagnosis of dementia is the last attribute. People with dementia have problems with social functioning that leads to social isolation. The authors argue that society has to play a key role in limiting the dehumanization of people living with dementia. The first step must be an appropriate approach to institutional care. One suitable approach is a patient-centered approach emphasizing a holistic approach to treatment and care based on the bio-psycho-social model of the disease.