Objective: The aim of this study was to give an in-depth description of the impact of disclosure of the diagnosis of dementia on a patient and the patient's partner.
Methods: Grounded theory interview study.
Results: Analysis of the interviews revealed that disclosure had an impact on three key domains: awareness of dementia, interpersonal relationship and social relationships. Disclosure was perceived as a confirmation of the pre-test ideas of both patient and carer. Formal disclosure of dementia was especially relevant for the carer in reconsidering her response to the patient's changed behavior.
Discussion: Receiving the diagnosis of dementia can be considered as a crucial moment in the process of becoming aware of the changes in one's life. Moreover, disclosure marks a new phase in the process of caring by the caregiver.