What is this Study about?

In this study we aim to explore the motivations and impacts of disclosure a personal diagnosis of dementia or being a care partner on social media. The overall goal of the study is to develop an evidence-based resource to promote benefits of social media for the dementia community while minimizing its harms.

What is this Study about?

The goal of the first study of my PhD is to confirm if the results of the recent scoping review by O'Neil, Fletcher & Bryden are consistent with the lived experiences of caregivers/care partners and community program providers with respect to physical activity and/or social support.

Implications for this research include:

~ Provide information regarding the effects of physical activity and social support on the health of dementia caregivers/care partners

~ Serve as the foundation for the development of future resources to help sustain the health and well-being of this population.

The findings from this study will be collated into various research papers, presentations and posters. Further, the results will be used to help guide the direction of the primary researchers other projects within her PhD.

What is this Study about?

We aim to explore how gender, social, and sensory factors influence the experiences of people who are living with cognitive decline and their spouses. We will complete a 90-min in-person interview with dyads (people living with cognitive decline and their spouses). Individuals are eligible to participate if the older person or their spouse lives with memory problems, experiences hearing impairment, and if the dyad has ever lived together in the community. Results may help identify ways to support the well-being of individuals with cognitive impairment and their spouses, paving the way for future studies.

What is this Study about?

Informal caregivers provide much-needed support to friends, family and loved ones suffering from dementia and related conditions who continue to live at home. Smart home technologies allow providers and caregivers to monitor patients while simultaneously aiding with daily tasks such as remembering to take medications. Although smart home technology has become a common intervention with many benefits, there is very little evidence surrounding informal caregivers’ thoughts, perceptions and needs when patients are utilizing this intervention. There is a necessity to gather insights from this user group to increase uptake and proper use.

What is this Study about?

This study is looking for caregivers to take part in a six-week creative movement group program, which aims to improve mental well-being and resilience.

What is this Study about?

CAN-PROTECT is a Canada-wide online study recruiting participants and caregivers of persons with dementia to explore how lifestyle, background, and caretaking factors affect our health, quality of life, cognition, behaviour, and function as we age. CAN-PROTECT data will be analyzed and jointly published by the University of Calgary in partnership with the University of Exeter.

What is this Study about?

This study aims to understand the needs and experiences of caregivers in managing medications for people living with dementia (PLWD) to enhance future resources. In stage one, caregivers of PLWD will be interviewed to gain insights into their needs and preferences for resources. In stage two, healthcare providers from various backgrounds and settings will be interviewed to understand how they support medication management for PLWD.

By understanding caregivers' experiences and needs in medication management, this study strives to contribute to the development of improved resources for caregivers. Ultimately, improving medication management practices has the potential to enhance the quality of life and health outcomes for both PLWD and their caregivers. By empowering caregivers with effective tools and resources, we contribute not only to the well-being of individual caregivers and care recipients but also to the broader societal goal of fostering a supportive and sustainable healthcare system for those affected by dementia.

What is this Study about?

This study aims to explore how the website, the Driving and Dementia Roadmap (DDR), is experienced by and impacts how people with dementia and family/friend carers manage the driving cessation process. Participants will be asked to use the DDR for 2-6 weeks, record their thoughts in a diary and take part in an interview or focus group.

What is this Study about?

Alert systems such as United States’ Silver Alert and Scotland’s Purple Alert support first responders in locating missing persons with dementia. In Canada, provinces are responsible for Silver Alerts. To date, Alberta and Manitoba amended Missing Persons Acts, but have no Silver Alerts. British Columbia has a citizen-led Silver Alert, yet no provincial legislation. This study examines how policies and programs for alert systems are developed and implemented in Canada, Scotland, and the United States. Findings will inform policies and implementation of alert systems to optimize the safety and well-being of people living with dementia at risk of going missing.