METHODEM

METHODEM: Methodological Consensus for Complex Interventions in Dementia is an INTERDEM Methodology Taskforce-led project funded by the Alzheimer’s Association, running over the next two years. The project aims at enhancing methodologies and designs for psychosocial interventions in dementia care. While Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs) are often considered the gold standard for evidence, they can sometimes lead to research waste due to “implementation errors.” These errors may occur when costly and time-consuming evaluations, including RCTs, either fail to demonstrate effectiveness despite positive reports or show effectiveness but are impractical, unacceptable, or limited to specific circumstances. Despite these issues, RCTs continue to be viewed as the best evidence by funders, grant providers, and researchers, often overlooking more innovative and appropriate methodological alternatives.

To guide research and clinical efforts on successful development, evaluation, and implementation of complex psychosocial interventions in dementia care, METHODEM will undertake two complementary studies:

Study 1 – Systematic review: Provide a comprehensive overview of (novel) designs and methodologies in research to develop, evaluate, and implement complex psychosocial interventions in dementia care.

Study 2 – Delphi study: Reach a consensus on which designs and methodologies a) integrate the core elements of the UK Medical Research Council (MRC) framework and b) suit the objectives of each phase in this area.

By gathering, discussing, and disseminating evidence on current research practices and exploring novel methodologies, METHODEM will improve the relevance and effectiveness of psychosocial interventions in dementia care.