Study supports those living with dementia

The SHAPE study: Researchers are testing a new online training and support group for people with dementia and e-learning for carers.

Why are we doing this study?

After receiving a diagnosis of dementia, it is very important that individuals and their families have access to support and advice, to help people regain control, plan for the future and carry on living a life that is meaningful to them.

The SHAPE study is an international research trial aiming to test the effectiveness of a new online training and support group for people in the early stages of dementia as well as an online program for carers. Participants will be supported to develop skills in areas including decision-making, symptom management and healthy living. We hope to place people with dementia at the centre of their care and improve their knowledge of dementia in order to support them living well with their diagnosis.

What you will get from participating:

To feel more in control of your health and wellbeing

To feel more confident to talk about the future with family and friends

To gain more knowledge of dementia and strategies to manage change

For the whole family to get access to additional support

What is involved?

Participants will be randomised into 1 of 2 groups:

Intervention group: People with dementia will be invited to attend an online group training and support session once a week for 10 weeks. All group members will be given a SHAPE iPad, where they can join the group at the touch of a button!

Control group: Participants will not receive the group training from our team but will have access to the online training after the study is complete.

All participants will be required to attend three telephone interviews to answer a number of questionnaires about health and wellbeing.

You might be eligible to participate if you:

Have a formal diagnosis of dementia

Are 65 years of age or older

Are comfortable to engage in an online group setting

Are comfortable communicating and reading in English

Have a care partner who is willing to participate

If you would like to know more about the study, please contact Jana Koch via email (shape@neura.edu.au) or call (02) 9399 1116.

Further information can also be found on NeuRA's website HERE

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