Quality in Ageing and Older Adults, 22(1), 2021, pp.3-25.
Publisher:
Emerald
Purpose: One limitation of research that assesses the effectiveness of physical activity interventions for people with dementia is that most do not describe the intervention in sufficient detail to ascertain a theoretical basis or mechanism of action that determines the effective components. This paper aims to identify studies which evaluate the mechanisms of action of physical activity...
(Edited publisher abstract)
Purpose: One limitation of research that assesses the effectiveness of physical activity interventions for people with dementia is that most do not describe the intervention in sufficient detail to ascertain a theoretical basis or mechanism of action that determines the effective components. This paper aims to identify studies which evaluate the mechanisms of action of physical activity interventions for people with dementia, to further inform effective intervention development. Design/methodology/approach: Papers were screened for evidence of evaluation of specific forms of physical activity, using pre-defined inclusion criteria. Analysis was conducted to ascertain if mechanisms of action were corroborated by data within and between studies. Findings: The authors identified 26 studies with a measured mechanism of action; these related to the effects of physical activity on either neurological structure or endocrinal markers, including hormones. Physical activity had potential to reduce hippocampal atrophy, increase neural recruitment, activate the noradrenergic system and improve anti-inflammatory responses. While individual studies were hampered by small sample sizes, the body of evidence indicated that physical activity may have potential to delay cognitive decline. Practical implications: Mechanisms of action in relation to dementia and physical activity are likely to be multifaceted, and physical activity may be protective against progression in the early stages of cognitive decline. Physical activity may be of greatest benefit if incorporated into on-going lifestyle, rather than engaged in for short periods, and combined with social interaction. Originality/value: This paper is unique in its focus on the mechanisms of action of physical activity interventions for people with dementia.
(Edited publisher abstract)
Journal of Public Mental Health, 19(3), 2020, pp.259-264.
Publisher:
Emerald
Purpose: This paper aims to assess the current state, and various methods, of public and patient involvement, particularly but not exclusively in research on ageing and dementia. Design/methodology/approach: Interviews were carried out with a researcher, who has had a leading role in research on dementia; a public contributor with extensive relevant experience; and a member of the research design
(Edited publisher abstract)
Purpose: This paper aims to assess the current state, and various methods, of public and patient involvement, particularly but not exclusively in research on ageing and dementia. Design/methodology/approach: Interviews were carried out with a researcher, who has had a leading role in research on dementia; a public contributor with extensive relevant experience; and a member of the research design service with responsibility for patient and public involvement. Findings: All those involved in the research can benefit considerably from public and patient involvement and it can make a significant difference to the course of a project. The importance of choosing an appropriate method of involvement is discussed and planning for it in both financial terms and time allowed. Examples are given of successful studies. Research limitations/implications: Those who took part in the interviews were chosen for their record in furthering public and patient involvement in research. There is no attempt to compare their views with those of the wider research community. Practical implications: The various ways in which patients and the public are involved in relevant research is a guide to those designing projects and those who may want to explore opportunities for involvement. Social implications: Social implications include being able to influence research projects, contributors of all ages find they are valued. Originality/value: The format of the paper is original, eliciting material from three viewpoints on research and involvement.
(Edited publisher abstract)
Subject terms:
dementia, research methods, participatory research, ageing;
A short publication providing information on dementia and learning disabilities. It provides key facts and statistics relating to dementia; facts and statistics about ageing with a learning disability; and information on the links between learning disability and dementia; and specifically between Down’s Syndrome and Alzheimer’s Disease. It is part of the Wellbeing for Life toolkit created...
(Edited publisher abstract)
A short publication providing information on dementia and learning disabilities. It provides key facts and statistics relating to dementia; facts and statistics about ageing with a learning disability; and information on the links between learning disability and dementia; and specifically between Down’s Syndrome and Alzheimer’s Disease. It is part of the Wellbeing for Life toolkit created for the MacIntyre Dementia project in order to promote understanding about getting older with a learning disability and living well with dementia.
(Edited publisher abstract)
Improving understanding of brain disorders is likely to be one of the core aims of physiological research in the 21st century. This article, the second in a four-part series, looks at the main types of dementia and explores emerging theories about how the condition develops. These theories are improving understanding of the neuro-degeneration that characterises the most common forms of dementia...
(Publisher abstract)
Improving understanding of brain disorders is likely to be one of the core aims of physiological research in the 21st century. This article, the second in a four-part series, looks at the main types of dementia and explores emerging theories about how the condition develops. These theories are improving understanding of the neuro-degeneration that characterises the most common forms of dementia, and will help improve care for those living with dementia.
(Publisher abstract)
Journal of Public Mental Health, 14(1), 2015, pp.8-17.
Publisher:
Emerald
...in current and future older populations.
Social implications: Better understanding of brain ageing and the dementia syndrome will improve investment decisions for primary, secondary and tertiary prevention.
Originality/value: Building on the work of JPND and the Alzheimer Society is the first study of the scope and limitations of current cohorts in Europe. It is designed to help researchers and policy
(Publisher abstract)
Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to scope potential and gaps in European cohort studies with focus on brain ageing and neurodegeneration.
Design/methodology/approach: Combined and augmented two scoping exercises conducted for European Union Joint Programme on Neurodegenerative Diseases (JPND) and the Alzheimer Society UK.
Findings: In total, 106 cohorts initially identified with a further 52 found on second sweep. Strengths include gender balance, diversity of measures and much detail on health and health behaviours, and lifecourse representation. Major gaps identified were the oldest old, non-Caucasians, people in Eastern Europe, migrant populations, rural residents and people in long-term care. Quality of life, psychosocial and environmental factors were limited. Relatively few cohorts are population representative. Analytical methods for combining studies and longitudinal analysis require careful consideration.
Research limitations/implications: European studies and published information only.
Practical implications: Collaboration across disciplines and studies, greater dissemination of methods and findings will improve knowledge about cognitive and functional decline in current and future older populations.
Social implications: Better understanding of brain ageing and the dementia syndrome will improve investment decisions for primary, secondary and tertiary prevention.
Originality/value: Building on the work of JPND and the Alzheimer Society is the first study of the scope and limitations of current cohorts in Europe. It is designed to help researchers and policy makers in their planning.
(Publisher abstract)
Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities, 27(6), 2014, pp.555-563.
Publisher:
Wiley
...on self-help skills and on both memory tests showed some decline, even when the scores of those already suffering from dementia were discounted.
Conclusions: At age 47, scores on most tests of even the majority of the cohort (i.e. those not definitely diagnosed with dementia) showed some decline. While this includes the scores of people who may subsequently develop dementia, it may also reflect
(Publisher abstract)
Background: A population sample of people with Down syndrome has been studied from infancy and has now been followed up again at age 47 years.
Methods: Intelligence and language skills were tested and daily living skills assessed. Memory/cognitive deterioration was examined using two test instruments.
Results: Scores on verbal tests of intelligence changed little. Those on a non-verbal test, on self-help skills and on both memory tests showed some decline, even when the scores of those already suffering from dementia were discounted.
Conclusions: At age 47, scores on most tests of even the majority of the cohort (i.e. those not definitely diagnosed with dementia) showed some decline. While this includes the scores of people who may subsequently develop dementia, it may also reflect the normal ageing process in this population.
(Publisher abstract)
Dementia throws up a number of particular clinical, ethical, and conceptual problems, which mostly reflect complicated evaluative decisions, for instance about diagnosis and the distinction between normal and abnormal ageing. This book explores the complex philosophical issues regarding our understanding and treatment of this disorder. Different disciplines approach dementia in different ways...
Dementia throws up a number of particular clinical, ethical, and conceptual problems, which mostly reflect complicated evaluative decisions, for instance about diagnosis and the distinction between normal and abnormal ageing. This book explores the complex philosophical issues regarding our understanding and treatment of this disorder. Different disciplines approach dementia in different ways; this book offers a critique of the main biomedical, neuropsychological, and social constructionist models used to understand dementia. Underlying these models and approaches are various and differing conceptual commitments which carry ethical implications concerning how people suffering from dementia ought to be treated. The book discusses both clinical issues and cases, together with philosophical work that might help better understanding and treatment of this illness. It is of interest to psychiatrists, philosophers, psychologists, and anyone involved in the care and management of those with dementia.
A DVD to help staff and carers understand the difficulties facing adults with learning disabilities in old age. It covers recognising the signs of and tracking senile dementia.
A DVD to help staff and carers understand the difficulties facing adults with learning disabilities in old age. It covers recognising the signs of and tracking senile dementia.
Advances in Mental Health and Learning Disabilities, 2(3), September 2008, pp.7-12.
Publisher:
Emerald
This article looks at how people with learning disabilities, including people with learning disabilities who develop dementia, make the transition to old age. It identifies key issues in understanding the transition to old age for people with learning disabilities, including how the ageing process may be different for this group, lack of agreement as to what constitutes old age for people
This article looks at how people with learning disabilities, including people with learning disabilities who develop dementia, make the transition to old age. It identifies key issues in understanding the transition to old age for people with learning disabilities, including how the ageing process may be different for this group, lack of agreement as to what constitutes old age for people with learning disabilities, the heterogeneity that might help make the transition easier for people.
Journal of Gerontological Social Work, 45(1/2), 2005, pp.223-232.
Publisher:
Taylor and Francis
Place of publication:
Philadelphia, USA
Population studies within all communities have confirmed the rise of what has been referred to as a revolution in longevity. With the first wave of the baby boom generation about to join the existing over sixty-five generations, new life stages and experiences are being created in ways that will challenge religious communities. An important aspect of this revolution will be the opportunity to create new religious rituals that will respond to and reflect these new life stages and experiences. This growing multi-generational cohort will increasingly seek that their religious communities respond to their changing life experiences in ways that infuse their lives with meaning. (Copies of this article are available from: Haworth Document Delivery Centre, Haworth Press Inc., 10 Alice Street, Binghamton, NY 13904-1580).
Population studies within all communities have confirmed the rise of what has been referred to as a revolution in longevity. With the first wave of the baby boom generation about to join the existing over sixty-five generations, new life stages and experiences are being created in ways that will challenge religious communities. An important aspect of this revolution will be the opportunity to create new religious rituals that will respond to and reflect these new life stages and experiences. This growing multi-generational cohort will increasingly seek that their religious communities respond to their changing life experiences in ways that infuse their lives with meaning. (Copies of this article are available from: Haworth Document Delivery Centre, Haworth Press Inc., 10 Alice Street, Binghamton, NY 13904-1580).