Research project receives grant to assess program for patients with advanced dementia
Dr. Sharon Kaasalainen and her team members have received $498,350 in funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) to assess a program designed to improve the lives of patients with dementia and their families.
“People who are living with dementia are one of society’s most frail and socially excluded populations of older adults, especially those with advanced dementia who often have little to no social interaction outside of basic care activities,” says Kaasalainen.
The 4-year research study she is leading will evaluate a new program in Canada called Namaste Care (www.namastecare.com). It aims to promote social inclusion and quality of life for older adults and their family carers, by engaging them in meaningful activities together.
“We expect that by participating in Namaste Care, people with dementia will feel more socially engaged, have better quality of life, and their family members will report less stress and improved family visits,” says Kaasalainen.
Research project details: Kaasalainen S, Hunter P (co-PIs). Co-Investigators: Baxter S, Coker E, dal Bello-Haas V, Dolovich L, Froggatt K, Hadjistavropoulos T, McAiney C, Ploeg J, Thabane L, Sussman T, Thompson G, van der Steen J, Volicer L, Wickson-Griffiths A. Improving Quality of Living and Dying for People Living with Advanced Dementia and their Caregivers. Funded: CIHR – Social Inclusion for Individuals with Dementia and Carers, 2017-2021, $498,350
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Faculty, Faculty member, Research, Sharon Kaasalainen