S D C R N

Graham A Jackson

Professor of Dementia Care

Alzheimer Scotland Centre for Policy and Practice

University West of Scotland

Why do research in care homes?

Studies done in other populations may not be applicable to this population

A relatively neglected area – we often don’t know what is happening!

Why do research in care

homes?

• Residents have complex needs • Research can be directly beneficial to residents• Research can be beneficial to staff • Research can improve services• Research attracts resources

Difficulties with research in care homes

• Research takes time

• Researchers may not be familiar with the care

home environment

• Research brings risks

The Enrich network• There is a place for all care homes to join the network.

• Joining the Network can be as simple as distributing information about research studies, or as involved as helping to deliver part of a project or intervention. Involvement can be planned around the needs and interests of residents and the time available.

• Researchers look to the network for support in many ways:• Feasibility / consultation during study development• Support for dedicate Care Home studies or• Recruitment to studies with residents / individual patients

The Network

The Network brings together care homes,

residents and researchers to support the delivery

of research. This will improve the treatments and

care of people with dementia and other diseases

affecting older people.

Benefits for care homes

As a care home being part of the Network will provide you with:

• Information and opportunities to be involved in

research and share best practice

• Professional development opportunities /

education and training

• Information on the outcomes of research

• A voice in influencing future research

The network

As a researcher working with the Network will provide you with:

• Improved access and speedy identification of care homes to work

with

• Assistance and support to establish the study

• Support to communicate with care homes and residents in a

structured way

Benefits for residents and families

• Provide stimulation as residents take part in new activities or have someone new to talk to.

• Give back control to residents, allowing them to feel like they are contributing to the future.

• Stimulate residents to take an increased interest in their own health and wellbeing.

• Potential benefits of research to individuals

S D C R N

Graham A Jackson

Professor of Dementia Care

Alzheimer Scotland Centre for Policy and Practice

University of the West of Scotland