Lucidity In The Context Of Advanced Neurodegenerative Disorders: A Concept Analysis

Individuals with advanced dementias resulting from neurodegenerative disorders (NDs) occasionally surprise caregivers with episodes of clarity and cognitive function that are not usually present. Lucid episodes-aptly named paradoxical lucidity in the literature-seem to involve a return of the "old self" during advanced neurodegenerative changes. Lucid episodes pose a problem for theories of neurological degeneration, which position dementias as progressive, incurable, and irreversible. In addition, lucid episodes raise ethical questions about whether information gleaned during lucid episodes is appropriate to direct future patient-centered care. The concept requires analysis and clarification if it is to guide future theorizing and research. The underlying goals of the current concept analysis are twofold: (a) to clarify the meaning of lucidity in the context of advanced NDs; and (b) to develop a theoretical definition that can guide future practice, research, and policy development. Walker and Avant's method is used to identify uses of the concept, defining attributes, antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents.