Advocates contribute to Flinders University research
Dementia Advocates Tina Southall, Janet Thomas, Lyn Whiteway and James Chaousis were recently involved in a research project with Flinders University looking to improve early diagnostic procedures for dementia.
Tina, who joined the Dementia Advocates Program in late 2022, had not previously considering being involved in research.
“I felt that I was no longer connected to that part of dementia due to my husband Rod dying,” Tina said.
When describing her experience, she said she really enjoyed it and didn’t feel out of her depth.
“I still know about things,” she said. “I know every aspect, sadly, having lived through it.”
Researchers benefit from the experience of Dementia Advocates, whether they are a person living with dementia, a carer or former carer.
Tina was one of 135 Advocates who expressed their interest in being involved in research projects in 2023 through the Dementia Advocates Program.
Involving Dementia Advocates helps researchers make their work more useful and meaningful in the ‘real world’.
Many researchers don’t have personal experience of dementia so working with Advocates, who bring expert knowledge from their life experience, helps them improve what they do.
If you would like to to be involved in the design or implementation of research like Tina, reach out to Sarah Jay, Consumer Engagement Coordinator Research at sarah.jay@dementia.org.au.
Photo: Dementia Advocate Tina Southall with her husband Rod and their granddaughter.