Dorset Voluntary and Community Sector Assembly

News

Can you help shape a project to support people living with dementia?

6th November 2025

From: Dr Marj Woodhouse, Senior Research Fellow, School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton

Hi

I’m developing a fellowship proposal that focuses on how assistive products that support fundamental care can be better chosen and used to support people living with dementia at home and in other community care settings. Assistive products include a wide range of items designed to make daily life easier and safer. This project focuses specifically on products that help with activities such as washing, using the toilet and caring for the skin. Examples include bath seats, toilet frames, absorbent pads and pressure cushions.

I would welcome informal conversations with:

• People living with dementia who have used assistive products
• Informal carers supporting someone with dementia
• Health or social care professionals with experience of recommending or using assistive products

 

The aim is to gather feedback by phone, in person or online to help shape the proposal. A small payment is available in recognition of people’s time and to help cover caring responsibilities where needed.

 

If you’re interested in contributing or would like to find out more, please contact me at: [email protected].

 

I’d like to hold these conversations over the next few months, ideally by mid-January 2026, with timings arranged to suit people’s availability.

 

Thank you for helping to share this with anyone who may like to take part.

 

Best wishes,

Marj

Dr Marj Woodhouse

Senior Research Fellow

School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton

[email protected]

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