Uni project to look at dementia support
A Stirling University research project will evaluate peer support initiatives for people with experience of dementia, with the aim of improving care in Scotland and across the UK.
The project, funded by the Life Changes Trust, will be led by Dr Jane Robertson, from the faculty of social sciences. The research will evaluate the work of five Life Changes Trust peer support projects which have been operating in Scotland.
Alongside the well-known health related challenges associated with dementia, a diagnosis can also bring significant social costs. This can include negative impacts on friendships and social networks, resulting in increased isolation and loneliness.
Dr Robertson said:“Peer support has an important role to play in helping to promote an increased sense of well-being and improved quality of life through meeting and sharing experiences with other people living with dementia or caring for somebody with dementia.
“We want to keep people socially connected, confident, and motivated to participate in their communities. This research will measure the processes and resources required to deliver support and help us determine how positive outcomes are best achieved.”
The research team will conduct workshops and interviews with users of the existing projects to learn about their experiences. The £40,000 study is scheduled to report in December next year.
It will also involve the recruitment of new volunteer community researchers who have experience of peer support, to help evaluate the projects at which the university team will be looking.
Life Changes Trust was established by National Lottery Community Fund in April, 2013, with an endowment of £50 million. It is being used to improve the lives of young people with care experience, people living with dementia, and unpaid carers of people with dementia.