Non-drug interventions for people with a learning disability and dementia 

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This project overview tells the story of our Life through a Lens research. Co-researchers with a learning disability were involved from the start and have taken part in staff recruitment, photovoice training, data collection and the project advisory group. Additionally, we have all shared the study findings at local, national and international events and helped to produce academic publications and accessible findings. 

what is photovoice?

​​Co-researchers used a research method called Photovoice. This involves taking photographs and using their knowledge by experience of having friends with dementia. The team had received training in photovoice and how to use a digital camera. This is why the research is called ‘Life through a Lens’. The project used a range of other research methods to find out if non-drug supports led to positive changes for individuals. This included taking measures before, during and after the interventions, interviews, and using an intervention log.
Listen to the two podcasts below to hear co-researchers Andrew and Louise talking about photovoice.

what are non-drug supports?

People with dementia sometimes take medication (drugs) to help with symptoms. There are additional ways to support people that don’t involve medication. We wanted to find out how far non-drug support can help people with a learning disability. Non-drug supports implemented in the study included life story work, digital photo album, online reminiscence activities, a playlist for life (individualised music), environmental changes to the home such as lighting or different flooring, aromatherapy, cookery and exercise.
Click the arrow to begin the podcasts

Findings

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Easy read accessible summary
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A person-centred approach to implementation of psychosocial interventions with people who have an intellectual disability and dementia-A participatory action study.
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Revisiting Photovoice: Perceptions of Dementia among Researchers with Intellectual Disability
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Life through a lens poster

dissemination 

Our end of project activities in March 2020 included a conference hosted at the University of Stirling 'Living Well with Dementia' for people with a learning disability which was attended by over seventy participants. The team talked about what helped participants in the study while delegates engaged with some of the ways in which people with dementia can be supported to live well. This included music reminiscence, robotic animals and real animals; it was an interactive day!  We also presented at an international conference in August 2020. 
​Scroll through the images below to see examples of how the study was disseminated.

awards

Life through a Lens has been highly commended in the Community Champion category of the Scottish Learning Disability Awards 2020. The study received a Research Culture award in the Best activity that Contributes to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion category as part of the University of Stirling Festival of Research, 2021.
Watch the SCLD Community Champion award 2020 below.
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Supported by Alzheimer’s Society Implementation Grant (grant number 292)