KU Medical Center
Dementia Progression
Cierra Kahrs,
The title of the work--Dementia Progression
The medium of the work- Porcelain
The size of the work- 2’x4’
The piece is my interpretation of neurons, the cells in the brain and spinal cord that help us think, speak, breathe, and carry out our daily activities. When examining the piece from left to right, on the far left you examine many interconnections between neurons, communicating with each other as they should when functioning correctly. Slowly as you move to the right, the neuronal connections become more sparce until only solitary, dying neurons remain. This way of viewing the artwork is an interpretation of the general disease process of dementia. When examining from right to left, you begin with solitude, and as you move left, more and more connections are formed, dependent on one another to function. This way of viewing the artwork represents the increased need for collaboration, caregiving, and interdisciplinary care as dementia progresses.
Both my experience as a former CNA and as a current medical student have profoundly shaped my understanding of dementia, combining both specific and personal perspectives. My early experiences with dementia, highlighted the impact of human connection, revealing how even small moments could significantly allow patients significantly affect patients. This hands-on care taught me that behind each diagnosis is a person and their loved ones who have a unique story. In medical school, I've gained a deeper grasp of the disease process of dementia. This duality emphasizes that while scientific knowledge is crucial, empathic and interdisciplinary approaches are essential for dementia care.
This piece is dedicated to patients living with dementia, their family members, and caregivers.
Dementia Progression
Cierra Kahrs,
The title of the work--Dementia Progression
The medium of the work- Porcelain
The size of the work- 2’x4’
The piece is my interpretation of neurons, the cells in the brain and spinal cord that help us think, speak, breathe, and carry out our daily activities. When examining the piece from left to right, on the far left you examine many interconnections between neurons, communicating with each other as they should when functioning correctly. Slowly as you move to the right, the neuronal connections become more sparce until only solitary, dying neurons remain. This way of viewing the artwork is an interpretation of the general disease process of dementia. When examining from right to left, you begin with solitude, and as you move left, more and more connections are formed, dependent on one another to function. This way of viewing the artwork represents the increased need for collaboration, caregiving, and interdisciplinary care as dementia progresses.
Both my experience as a former CNA and as a current medical student have profoundly shaped my understanding of dementia, combining both specific and personal perspectives. My early experiences with dementia, highlighted the impact of human connection, revealing how even small moments could significantly allow patients significantly affect patients. This hands-on care taught me that behind each diagnosis is a person and their loved ones who have a unique story. In medical school, I've gained a deeper grasp of the disease process of dementia. This duality emphasizes that while scientific knowledge is crucial, empathic and interdisciplinary approaches are essential for dementia care.
This piece is dedicated to patients living with dementia, their family members, and caregivers.