Abstract
Past research into family caregiving activities tended to focus on general aspects of caring (looking after) rather than on engagement of a relative in activities. If professionals are to work in partnership with carers to deliver a home-based activity programme for those with dementia in a person-centred manner, it is crucial that they have an understanding of the process in which the activity needs of people with dementia are being met by home carers. The purpose of this article is to report on how co-resident carers, through engaging their relative, enhance their relative's autonomy and a sense of self despite a progressive decline in cognitive function. The findings of the study bring a deeper insight into this process. Such insight is essential for practitioners if they are to identify and develop more realistic intervention strategy, one which will work in effective partnership with and support of family carers, using a person-centred approach.