University of Liverpool researchers are spearheading the adoption of an innovative approach to dementia care in the Northwest.

The Institute of Population Health’s Living Lab in Ageing and Long-Term Care, which launched yesterday, is a network of researchers in social care settings such as day care centres, respite care, home care agencies and care homes. The network is designed to promote the Dutch model of dementia care established in 1998 which seeks to embed scientific research within long-term care for older people.

Senior research fellow, Dr Clarissa Giebel, said: “One million people are living with dementia in the UK, with numbers continuing to increase. Not only does dementia affect the person living with the condition, but also their family members and friends. This model uses a team science approach, with great scientific and societal impact and I’m delighted we are spearheading its introduction to the Northwest.

“Today’s launch gives us the opportunity to speak directly to those in the sector who we want to work with. We want to collaborate and make a meaningful and positive difference to the lives of those with dementia, their friends and family and those who care for them in a professional and unpaid capacity.”

Professor Jan Hamers, founder and chairman of the Living Lab in Ageing and Long-Term Care, said: “I’m very proud and honoured that the University of Liverpool and its partners have launched a Living Lab using the Limburg Living Lab model. Next to the benefits for vulnerable older people, their family, care staff and scientists living and working in the Northwest coast region, this step will enable further collaboration between twin living labs in the UK and abroad. The challenges people face both pre and post a dementia diagnosis are universal and by sharing knowledge and insight we can come together to address this global issue.”

Further information about the Living Lab in Ageing and Long-Term Care can be found here.

If you work In the field of dementia care and wish to find out more please email: Dr Clarissa Giebel [email protected]