The Salford Institute for Dementia, based at The University of Salford aims to improve the lives of people affected by dementia, as this detailed analysis reveals
The research of The Salford Institute for Dementia focuses on the challenges faced by people living with dementia and their care partners and seeks to improve the lives of these individuals in a number of innovative and interesting ways.
Amongst the many valuable insights offered, we find out that the Institute has a panel of dementia associates who act experienced experts, including people living with dementia and their care partners. We learn that those living with dementia have reported an appetite for influencing dementia specific attitudes, policy and services. One challenge here is that interventions aimed at maintaining identity and a sense of self for people living with dementia are underdeveloped.
In addition, we are told that as part of their commitment to improving the lives of people with dementia, the Institute hosts a number of community engagement groups from their specially designed Dementia Hub on the University campus. For instance, Memory Cafés was founded to promote social inclusion, prevent isolation and improve the social and emotional well-being of attendees.
Interestingly, we discover that music can often have a positive effect on people living with dementia. As well as promoting well-being, engaging in music can increase cognitive functioning and reduce depression. Another positive initiative in place is The Good Life Club, a gardening group for people living with dementia and their care partners. We know that people living with dementia often express a wish to participate in gardening and other outdoor-based activities.
On the subject of public engagement, we find out about Dementia Action Week 2018 at The University of Salford, which features a roundtable discussion with Nordoff Robbins regarding ‘Music in Dementia’ followed by an interactive afternoon celebrating the ‘Power of Music, amongst many other exciting highlights.
Finally, we are provided with details about the impressive MSc/PgDip/PgCert DEMENTIA: CARE AND THE ENABLING ENVIRONMENT course at The University of Salford, as well as the research priorities of The Smart Urban Futures Research. I trust that you enjoy the many insights that this analysis offers, plus the very helpful study options that are detailed here.
