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My research will focus on the evolving relationship in ‘home’ throughout the dementia journey, based on deductive research and case studies. This research will consider person-centered care principles and engage in co-design processes with PwD and their care constellation to develop products and services which foster shared decision-making communication. In addition, my research will develop a methodology to integrate co-design processes and assess how design research and practises contribute to the process.

Measuring Quality of Life in people with dementia. In a cross-sectional and case study I am comparing three QoL instruments to assess their psychometric properties, compare this with existing evidence in a systematic review. Ultimately, we will develop a guidance tool for researchers that can help them in choosing the appropriate instrument for their research design.

My PhD trajectory is a part of the ABOARD project which focuses on the preparations that are needed for primary and secondary prevention of Alzheimer’s disease. The focus of my PhD project is to look into ways in which prevention can be inclusive and culturally sensitive in nature. Inclusion in this regard means that there is attention for people with culturally diverse backgrounds and (health) literacy

Developing a co-produced career guidance intervention for people in employment with young onset dementia. PhD research in measuring performance in social care third sector organizations.

Developing the role of Dementia Champions in the homecare sector

My PhD project aims to develop an online psychosocial intervention to support family caregivers of people with dementia, with a focus on reducing caregiver burden and enhancing self-efficacy. The project consists of three stages: a systematic review to evaluate the effectiveness of existing online interventions; a qualitative study involving interviews and focus groups to explore caregivers’ experiences, support needs, and perspectives on online support; and a feasibility trial to test the acceptability and usability of the developed intervention. Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) is embedded throughout the research process, with contributors playing an active role in shaping the study design, co-facilitating data collection, and co-developing the intervention.

Implementation and evaluation of novel and innovative approaches to care for people with dementia and their family members

For my main research project I look at the spiritual needs of care home residents living with dementia. The main aim is to better understand how people living with dementia in care homes from different cultural and faith backgrounds can be best supported with their spiritual needs, and whether previously developed reflective toolkits can aid in improving spiritual care for people living with dementia in care homes. My main expertise is in ethnographic research and creative methods in care homes.