Abstract
Numerous papers in the "Reconstructing Person-Centeredness" supplement of the Journal of Applied Gerontology reference the perceived relationship between person-centeredness and quality dementia care, from fostering meaningful relationships and individualizing care, to practical applications of shared decision making and co-design of technologies and research measures. This article draws upon reflections from members of the Alzheimer's Association Early Stage Advisory Group regarding person-centeredness and quality dementia care. Their experiences, beliefs, and perspectives provide lived examples and context to three cross-cutting topics discussed throughout the supplement: relationships as underlying person-centeredness, the role of person-centered care in long-term and other healthcare settings, and person-centeredness and technology. By bridging first-hand narratives with academic inquiry, this article adds context to other papers in this supplement, and addresses the importance of person-centered dementia care from the perspective of those living with dementia.