Research involving people with dementia: a literature review

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review existing literature that addresses involving people with dementia in research, and how this can relate to involving people with dementia in research as co-researchers.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach takes the form of a literature review.

Findings

Despite a growing drive for patient and public involvement in research, people with dementia are often still excluded from many areas of research, and are rarely given the opportunity to act as co-researchers. Existing principles focussing on how people with dementia can effectively and safely be involved in research as participants (including ethical considerations, enabling participation, support for people with dementia and the involvement of family members and carers) can also be applied to enabling people with dementia to be actively involved with research as co-researchers. The benefits of involving people with dementia in research are also explored.

Originality/value

This paper adds to the small body of literature that addresses involving people with dementia in research as co-researchers, and advocates for ongoing research and development in this area.

Citation

Rivett, E. (2017), "Research involving people with dementia: a literature review", Working with Older People, Vol. 21 No. 2, pp. 107-114. https://doi.org/10.1108/WWOP-11-2016-0033