The impact of a collaborative approach on the development and delivery of creative workshops for people living with younger onset dementia and their families: Reflections from the consultation team

  • Ward, A. (Author)
  • Gemma Collard-Stokes (Author)
  • Clive Holmwood (Author)
  • Peter Middleton (Author)
  • George Rook (Author)

Activity: Academic Talks or PresentationsConference PresentationResearch

Description

A collaborative consultation group was established to support and inform the adaptation of an innovative approach to deliver creative arts workshops for people living with younger onset dementia and their family. The aim of the group was to provide insight on engaging and supporting people with younger onset dementia and their family to participate in the sessions. Members of the research and collaboration group reflect on the personal and project benefits this has brought.

Five members were recruited to the consultation group. This included two people with a diagnosis of younger onset dementia, a dance and movement expert and former family carer, an experienced drama therapist, and a specialist community dementia nurse. The group met regularly, online, throughout the lifespan of the project to provide their expertise to support the development and delivery of the project.

The research team gained through the rich discussions about the nuances of language, ways to support people living with younger onset dementia, and embracing ideas that supported the effective workshop’s delivery. The consultation group members developed their knowledge on creative arts process, experienced ‘delight and excitement’ in being part of the project team and seeing changes occur based on their input, knowledge and experience.

The direction and success of this project was enhanced through the involvement of the collaboration group. Working with members from different arts backgrounds and with those living with a diagnosis of dementia changed perspectives and brought about rich and challenging discussions which had positive impacts on the overall project.
Period24 Apr 202426 Apr 2024
Event title36th Global Conference for Alzheimer's Disease International: Dementia Insights, Innovations, Inspirations
Event typeConference
LocationKrackow, PolandShow on map
Degree of RecognitionInternational

Keywords

  • Dementia
  • public and patient involvement
  • Creative Arts