RAT group researcher meets South Yorkshire Dementia Research Advisory Group (a patient and public and involement group)

Members of the RAT Group attended the South Yorkshire Dementia Research Advisory Group on 20th March 2014 to present materials from upcoming research projects. The group is made up of people living with dementia and their relatives, and is facilitated by Hannah Hollinger, DeNDRoN MND Co-ordinator, Sheffield Institute of Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield. 

Becky Field and her colleague Jacki Rutherford, a London based researcher, attended to discuss the 'Valuing Active Life in Dementia' research study:

"It was a really valuable meeting. We met with the group to ask for feedback on written materials - for example posters and leaflets, explaining what is involved in taking part in the 'Valuing Active Life in Dementia' research study. These materials are to be given to people living with dementia, their families and friends.  The group gave us LOTS of really valuable feedback, about how appealing - or otherwise - the materials were, the language we had used and difficulties understanding the materials" 

"We spent over an hour talking through the materials, we really appreciated the careful thought people gave to our questions, and also the time group members had spent reading materials beforehand. We are now re-designing and re-writing the materials in response to this feedback. We hope the materials will be better as a result, easier to understand, and encourage people to be interested in and take part in the study."

Phil Joddrell attended to discuss the ‘InTouch’ project looking into the use of iPad games with people with dementia:

"I attended the meeting to present two iPad games that we are intending to use in the next stage of our project. With the help of Hannah and Sarah Smith, fellow RAT Group member and co-facilitator of the meeting, everyone was able to have a go at playing the games on the iPads which created a very lively and fun atmosphere. The attendees provided feedback during and after gameplay on a wide range of aspects, including how to present the games to our participants and what colours and sizes the game objects should be. This information has proved invaluable in helping us to write our study protocol."

"What I found most impressive is how the group members not only gave their own personal opinions on the games, but also gave opinions on how they thought other people of differing abilities might experience the games also. I hope to be able to return to the group in the future for their guidance on other projects."

Members of The South Yorkshire Dementia Research Advisory Group

 

Written by Becky Field and Phil Joddrell.