Dementia is a condition which is increasing amongst the general population. In the UK, approximately 982,000 people are living with dementia and this figure is predicted to increase to 1.4 million by 2040 (Alzheimer's Society, 2024).
Research suggests that military people and veterans are at higher risk of developing dementia due their increased exposure to potential risk factors, such traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.
However, little research has been undertaken to explore the needs of this population. This project, funded by Dementia Research UK, aims to find out more about the experiences of veterans with dementia and their support needs.
By working collaboratively with veterans and stakeholders, we aim to raise awareness for this community, working together to identify their unique experiences, challenges, and priority areas for future research.
Exploring the experiences of veterans with dementia
Music taking place as part of the workshopsThe project will run a series of weekly creative workshops for veterans living with dementia, with activities including cooking, drumming, instant theatre and art/collage, plus a feedback session.
During these workshops, we will invite the group to speak about their experiences as veterans and what it is like to live as a veteran with dementia. We aim to explore their experiences with a view to identifying future support and research priorities for this community.
Sharing their stories
Workshop attendeesParticipants will be given the opportunity to voice their stories during this workshop series and we will invite them to feature in a short documentary-style film which aims to present their stories in a collaborative way.
The short film will be presented at an information sharing event for stakeholders at Bournemouth University on 16th July 2024.
Attendees will be invited to view the film and participate in discussions around this topic, identifying support and future research priorities for this community.