Experts gather at University of Stirling to share latest dementia research

Experts from across the UK are gathering at the University of Stirling to share the latest developments in dementia and ageing research.

The Dementia Care, Design and Technology event will showcase ongoing work by the Dementia and Ageing Research Group and the Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC) at the University.

The two-day event, which is being held in the Iris Murdoch Building from 7th-8th February, will also hear about related developments from keynote speakers Dr Anne Killett, from the University of East Anglia, and Professor Karim Hadjri, from the University of Sheffield.

Stirling’s Professor of Dementia Research Emma Reynish said: “At the University of Stirling, our dementia and ageing research and development activity focuses around the common goal of improving lives.

“Our research programmes deliver the ‘here and now’ findings that have the potential to make real-life differences.

Professor Emma Reynish.

“Coupled with ongoing development activities, we have the ability to deliver palpable impact to people living with dementia.”

The conference will open with a keynote speech by Lesley Palmer, Chief Architect at DSDC, about Iridis - the first app of its kind in the world to assess and provide feedback on how suitable a private home, care facility or other environment is for older people, and particularly those with dementia.

The first day will focus on technology, the acute hospital, care homes and population surveys and data, including a presentation about the Healthy AGeing In Scotland (HAGIS) study of people aged 50+ in Scotland by Professor David Bell. 

Day two will focus on design, neighbourhoods and communities, housing and quality of life, finishing with a discussion about global challenges and solutions.