What we are doing?
This project aims to generate greater knowledge and understanding around the experiences and realities of individuals living with young onset dementia. Specifically focusing on former athletes because former athletes are suggested to be at a higher risk of neurodegeneration in later life. We will do this by interviewing former athletes living with young onset dementia as well as separately interviewing their families/carers. By exploring the experiences of the individual, as well as their families, we will improve our understanding of their realities and consequently improve our understanding of their needs and desires and how best to support them.
Why we are doing it?
Dementia is commonly associated with an aging or older population and much of the existing research into the experiences of individuals with dementia is primarily focused on an older population. Consequently, the impact of dementia on younger adults is sometimes overlooked with little being known about their experiences. Despite sharing similarities with older individuals with dementia, people with young onset dementia face additional psychosocial challenges. For example, they might be of an employable age or still have dependent children. Therefore, it is imperative to further explore and gain better understanding about the experiences of younger individuals with dementia.
What the benefits will be and to whom?
This research will be beneficial for individuals who currently have young onset dementia and others who will be diagnosed with it in the future. Through improving our understanding of their experiences, we can learn about how best to support them and what they desire. It will also be useful to help GPs and policymakers to improve the quality and type of care that these individuals receive. By improving the care and support that they receive we can help to improve their quality of life, for as long as possible.
Who we are working with?
Our study team is made up of researchers from Loughborough University, Nottingham University and Nottingham Trent University. During the project we will work with a range of people including individuals with young onset dementia, their families, community partners, charities and NHS mental health trusts.
Contact
Kieran McGee, PhD Researcher, Loughborough University, k.j.mcgee@lboro.ac.uk.