Fast and slow thinking applied to dementia: An animation explaining the relevance of Kahneman’s theory

Abstract

This article outlines an animation entitled ‘Understanding Thinking in Dementia’, which applies Kahneman’s notion of ‘fast and slow thinking’ to dementia and behavioural expressions of need (BEN). It posits that in dementia, slow thinking becomes less reliable and available, and fast thinking becomes more heavily relied upon. The implications of this in relation to the care and management of BEN are discussed, as well as recommendations for the design and delivery of appropriate activities for people living with dementia. The advantages of animations as a teaching tool are considered. Applications of Kahneman’s theory to functional mental health disorders, namely depression and anxiety, are also introduced. This animation joins a collection of educational videos produced for Communication and Interaction Training (CAIT).