Norfolk and Suffolk researchers helping develop dementia support for carers
The aim is to help family carers stay emotionally and physically well
Researchers at the Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, University of East Anglia and University of Exeter are working to bring what they describe as a 'pioneering' support programme for family carers of people living with dementia to the UK.
They are working with carers and healthcare workers to co-develop and test a new CareCoach support package, which has been funded by £2 million from the National Institute for Health Research.
The programme, which originated in the Netherlands, uses face-to-face sessions, a web-based home programme and support from a coach to help people adapt to changes in their relatives, and the emotional difficulties associated with dementia.
The aim is to help family carers stay emotionally and physically well.
The team says it's now looking to develop a research trial to test the programme.
Juniper West, Research Development Lead for Older People’s Services at NSFT, said: “If you are a family carer, we want to hear your opinions. The advisory group warmly welcomes new members, from all backgrounds, family relationships and walks of life.”
The project is being led by Prof Chris Fox, from NSFT and the University of Exeter, and Dr Jane Cross from the School of Health Sciences at the UEA.
Prof Fox said: “We know that family carers provide significant support for people with dementia and it’s really important they get the right support. We want to help carers improve their quality of life, mood and sense of being able to care well.”