Promoting good days for people with dementia through virtual spaces that comfort, connect, and calm – A pilot study

Opportunity details

Position type

Participant

Number of positions available

6

Organization

University of Regina

Role overview

We are seeking people who have early stages of dementia or people who have loved ones with dementia to participate in a pilot study which will provide the groundwork of a larger patient-oriented research study. The goal of this pilot study is to explore the idea of safe spaces for persons with dementia and create a static model of a safe space to be used in the next stage of the research. This goal will be met through three objectives: 1) Explore what brings people with dementia comfort, calm, and connection to their space and to others. 2) Create a static model of a safe space that can be used in a future study to create a virtual space. If you choose to participate, you will be invited to participate in a one-on-one interview and three focus groups in-person or online. You will be contacted to have an initial interview in which you will be asked questions about yourself (person with dementia) or your loved one with dementia. We would like to know what conditions exist that make for a good day and alternatively for a challenging day. Then you will be invited to three focus groups in which we will discuss and create together a static model of a virtual space that would be comforting and calming for people with dementia.

Required knowledge, experience, skills

No experience or particular skills are required. We are seeking the lived experience of people who have dementia or who are the loved ones of people with dementia. At the end of the pilot study you will be invited to continue on the larger study as a patient-partner.

Time commitment

An initial interview will be conducted on the phone and will take approximately 30-45 minutes. Three focus groups are planned that will take place in person or on zoom. Each focus group will take approximately 2 - 3 hours.

Location

Interviews will take place on the phone or by zoom. Focus groups can be virtual or in-person depending on the participants preference.

What can you expect from the research team?

The research team will value your expertise in your lived experience and the discussions that take place will serve as the foundation for a larger study. The research team will provide you with an honoraria and cover expenses such as mileage, parking and will provide refreshments. The research team will support you through education and mentoring to fully participate on the team.

Supports available to participate

Honoraria

Submission of interest deadline

August 31, 2025