Dementia in the workplace: new research project

Dr Laura Lebec writes about a Dementia at Work research project which aims to support both employers and their employees.

At the Alzheimer Scotland Centre for Policy and Practice a team of researchers, led by Dr Louise Ritchie and I, are working on an innovative 3-year project to improve the support available for employed people living with dementia.

Dementia is a growing workplace concern, and our research will explore the question: What role could the career development practitioner play in supporting employees who have been diagnosed with dementia?

The research involves focus groups and discussion with employers, senior managers and HR professionals who share experiences of how they currently support staff members who have been diagnosed with early onset dementia or who are carers for a relative living with dementia. ?

Here’s a few facts to consider:

• In Scotland it is estimated that more than 90,000 people are living with dementia
• Approximately 3,000 of those will have young onset dementia and be in employment
• Young onset dementia is diagnosed before the age of 65

The term 'dementia' describes a range of symptoms that, over time, can affect memory, problem‐solving, language, vision, and behaviour. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia, affecting more than half of those diagnosed.

It’s important for employers to understand that people can still live well with dementia. Someone who is in their 40s, 50s, or 60s may be physically relatively healthy and with family and financial responsibilities.

Research has shown that continued employment for people living with dementia is a viable option; many individuals may wish to continue working and have the capability to contribute to society and live purposeful lives. Until now there has been a lack of consideration of the career guidance needs of people with dementia.

For some employees, retirement may be the preferred option post diagnosis. However, remaining in employment is possible and many employees living with dementia may wish to continue in their existing role or seek alternative employment or volunteering opportunities. Support from families, colleagues, management, and a multi‐disciplinary team of professionals is essential, and our research will explore how the career development practitioner could form a part of this supporting team.

To take part in our research project please get in touch via email, all enquiries are very welcome.?