How Meeting Centres continue to support people affected by dementia: report on UK COVID-19 impact
ISSN: 1366-3666
Article publication date: 17 May 2021
Issue publication date: 24 November 2021
Abstract
Purpose
Because of COVID-19 restrictions, Meeting Centres (MCs) for people affected by dementia in the UK ceased to meet physically but continued to provide remote support. The aim was to understand the extent to which MCs were able to operate when physical meetings were not possible and how they achieved particularly in relation to the adaptation and coping model and practical, emotional and social adjustment.
Design/methodology/approach
Semi-structured interviews and focus groups were conducted with people affected by dementia, staff, volunteers, managers and trustees from MCs. Data were collected on the type and quantity of contact MCs had with people affected by dementia during lockdown. Data were coded and mapped against adaptation and coping strategies, i.e. practical understanding and empowerment, optimising emotional well-being and opportunities for social engagement.
Findings
A range of remote approaches, both technological (e.g. using online platforms) and non-technological (e.g. newsletters and post) were implemented alongside limited face-to-face contact. Regular MC activities were adapted using the different approaches. It was possible to map all the adaptation and coping model support strategies to the activities delivered in this way. MCs were able to adapt rapidly to continue to support people to adjust to change.
Social implications
Moving forward, combining approaches (usual MC and remote) means person-centred support could be optimized, addressing social isolation and reaching those who cannot attend MCs.
Originality/value
This paper offers new insight into the extent to which community-based support for people with dementia can continue when face-to-face contact is not possible because of COVID-19.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
Conflict of interest declaration: The authors declare no conflict of interest. Neither the funders nor the Meeting Centre managers had a role in the design of the study; in the collection, analyses, or interpretation of data; in the writing of the manuscript, or in the decision to publish the results.Funding: This report was funded by The National Lottery Community Fund (UK Project No.10333678).This research was led by the Association for Dementia Studies at the University of Worcester and supported with recruitment of participants and organisation of focus groups by the managers of the four UK Meeting Centre demonstrator sites.
Citation
Evans, S., Bray, J. and Brooker, D. (2021), "How Meeting Centres continue to support people affected by dementia: report on UK COVID-19 impact", Working with Older People, Vol. 25 No. 4, pp. 283-293. https://doi.org/10.1108/WWOP-12-2020-0060
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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