The rise of the Memory Hubs in the UK: A model for multi-disciplinary community care provision for people living with early-stage dementia and their family carers

Activity: Academic Talks or PresentationsConference PresentationResearch

Description

Introduction: The Memory Hub Support Centres (2021-) were established through a collaboration between an NHS healthcare provider and third sector organisation. This provided a unique, best practice approach to dementia care for those newly diagnosed with dementia and their family members. The aim was to establish eight Hubs within the locality that could provide a community and health focused intervention to post-diagnostic support.

Method: An evaluation explored the impact of the Memory Hubs in helping to maintain the mental wellbeing, quality of life, and independence of people living with dementia and their family members. A mixed methods approach included: focus groups with members living with dementia (n=3 groups), family members (n=3 groups), and staff (n=2 groups). Interviews were conducted with key stakeholders (n=4), and a case study approach followed three paired members over one month. A desk-based review provided wider community intervention context.

Results: The findings demonstrate partnership organisations working collaboratively can meet the holistic needs of members. All members valued attending, learning together, and benefitting from positive social support; however, members also want separate group activities with peers. Challenges Hubs faced included supporting people to transition in/out of the service and the need for wider partnership working to support the Hubs’ growth and development.

Conclusions: The Hubs provide a unique network of vital community resources; offering positive social support, opportunities for shared learning, friendship, reduced isolation, and enhanced self-confidence. Key lessons highlight the need for separate member activities, and staff supervision to support member transition to alternative services.
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
  • Community intervention
  • Memory