A University Project for Dementia in the UK
A University Project for Dementia in the UK
A University Project for Dementia in the UK
All our projects were informed by the lived experience and knowledge of people living with dementia and cognitive impairment. We set up an Advisory Group of experts by experience – people living with dementia and carers – facilitated by Innovations In Dementia.
The ENLIVEN Advisory Group was an integral part of the research programme. The group was launched on 16th November 2021 and it helped advise on research design and processes and brought a wide range of skills and expertise to ENLIVEN.
Director of Innovations in Dementia, is the group’s facilitator.
Steve is the Director of Innovations In Dementia and led on involving people with cognitive impairment.
“I was diagnosed with AD early so it has been managed with the help of healthy living, rivastigmine, prayer, friends and husband.
This is a picture of me during training for the London 100.”
“As well as mobility challenges, I have Alzheimer’s disease. I formerly spent most of my leisure time outdoors, and like whenever possible to keep that up, so I was glad to learn of ENLIVEN, which promised to raise the profile of accessibility issues. I have enjoyed participating in the project, both for the taking part in discussion groups and activities and also learning about other possible sources of stimulation.”
“I am a widow, mother and Nanna! I was a carer for my late husband for six years. I like to do all sorts of crafts, puzzles, reading and enjoy the out of doors. I find it relaxing. Here is a photo of me with my gonk I made at a Carers’ workshop just before Christmas, it is called Snowflake!😂”
“My working life was almost entirely indoors with major tech companies then teaching business and information technology. Life was balanced with much time camping, fishing and exploring the great outdoors. A major heart attack, followed with dementia over a decade ago, stopped work life and made the need for safe, exciting and healthy outdoor experience an even greater need. I still get out and about daily.”
Patrick is living with HIV and early onset dementia. He is involved with many groups and organisations to raise understanding and awareness around these conditions and he has been extremely proactive in highlighting the needs of LGBTQ+ people affected by dementia. Patrick was awarded Positive Role Model of the Year in 2019 at The National Diversity Awards and in 2021, and he was one of 10 everyday LGBTQ+ heroes honoured at the Attitude Pride Awards.
Marian is a former carer of a family member who lived with dementia for some years. She brought a user’s perspective to the team.
Emma has a background in Art and Design, she states: “I spent many years teaching in Waldorf Steiner Schools. Now I paint, play flute, make clothes and costumes for local productions. I’m a carer for my Dad who has Vascular dementia with Alzheimer’s, and I volunteer at our Forget Me Not group for local people living with dementia and their carers. I initiated and set up a carers’ group here too, a space where we can share information, support and help one another.”
Following a career as an international marketing director, Trevor chose to step away from his role in 2011 when it became evident he needed to devote time to his wife, Yvonne, and her emerging memory problems which were eventually diagnosed as young onset Alzheimer’s disease when she was 57 years old. His approach to looking after her emulated the style he adopted in his work life, namely to see obstacles simply as inconveniences which have to be circumnavigated… no ifs, no buts, no choice. When Yvonne became a care home resident in May 2019, Trevor took to volunteering his time for a number of dementia charities. He is a regular speaker at events and in the media, helping to raise awareness about those living with dementia and the challenges faced by carers and family members who support them. Trevor lives in NW London and has two children and two young grandsons.
Stephen Tamblin has vascular dementia – he states: “I love the outdoors and being in nature as I’ve worked outside.”
“I’m a wife, mum and grandma. I gave up my job with Age UK Plymouth to be the main carer for my late father in law. I love being out in my garden and regularly go out with my husband to walk our dog. I’m happiest outside and find being around nature helps with me feel relaxed.”
“I was diagnosed with mixed dementia (Alzheimer’s, FTD and Vascular).
I have been many places in the world and seen some fabulous sights, I love being outdoors in nature – I find it very calming, peaceful and relaxing. I have a few places I like to go to when I need to get away and de-stress or be away from crowds or noise.”
“I have mixed dementia. I love gardening and being outdoors in nature.”