In-Touch: person-centered palliative care to improve comfort and connection in advanced dementia
The In-Touch study is looking at how to improve the care and daily life for people with advanced dementia living in nursing homes. It also aims to offer better support to their family members. This study is testing a new approach that combines two main things: group activities using gentle, sensory experiences to help residents feel calm and connected, and discussions between nursing staff and family members to plan for future care. The goal is to make sure care respects the resident's wishes. It also involves staff and volunteers. The study hopes to make residents more comfortable, give families more confidence, and help staff feel more skilled in their work. It's happening in several European countries.
At a glance
What is this study about?
The In-Touch project is a research study focused on improving the day-to-day lives and care for people with advanced dementia who live in nursing homes. We also want to make sure that their family carers get the support they need. Dementia can make it hard for people to communicate and connect with others, so finding new ways to help them feel comfortable and engaged is really important.
This study is testing a new way of providing care. It brings together two main ideas. Firstly, there are gentle group sessions that use sensory activities like soft touch, pleasant smells, and calming sounds to help residents feel relaxed and connected. This approach is inspired by something called Namaste Care. Secondly, the study encourages important conversations between nursing home staff and family members. These chats are designed to help families think about and plan what kind of care their loved one would want in the future, making sure their wishes are respected. Nursing home staff and volunteers who help care for these residents will also be involved in delivering these sessions and supporting everyone.
The project is a large study, involving nursing homes in seven different European countries. By working across various countries, we hope to learn a lot about what really helps people with advanced dementia and their families, and how best to support the dedicated staff and volunteers who look after them.
Key takeaways
- A research study to improve life for people with advanced dementia in nursing homes.
- Tests gentle group activities and care planning conversations with families.
- Aims to increase comfort for residents and support for families.
- Hopes to make staff feel more skilled and satisfied.
- No major risks; participation is voluntary and you can stop anytime.
- Runs until December 2027 and is funded by the European Union and Innovate UK.
Who may be eligible?
Nursing homes can join the study if they are typical for their country, have at least 30 beds, and are within a two-hour drive of the university helping with the study. They also need to be able to include enough residents in the study.
Residents can take part if they have advanced dementia and have a family member who is actively involved in their care and decisions, even if that family member isn't their legal guardian. It's also important that residents can comfortably be brought to a common social area for sessions. Unfortunately, residents who are very unwell, recently moved from hospital, or whose death is expected very soon won't be able to join.
Nursing home staff and volunteers who help care for these residents can also take part. However, nursing homes that already use the specific care approaches being tested in this study, or are involved in another dementia study, won't be able to participate.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Do you or your loved one live in a nursing home?
- Does the resident have advanced dementia?
- Is there a family member actively involved in the resident's care?
- Is the resident able to come to a social area for group activities?
- Is the nursing home NOT already using similar specialized care programs?
- Is the nursing home NOT involved in another dementia study that includes residents?
What does participation involve?
If you or your loved one takes part in this study, residents with advanced dementia will be invited to join gentle, multi-sensory group sessions designed to bring comfort and help them connect with others. These sessions will be led by staff and volunteers. For family carers, you will be invited to have structured conversations with nursing staff. These talks are there to help you plan future care that truly respects your loved one’s needs and wishes. Nursing home staff and volunteers will also be involved in leading these sessions and supporting the residents and families. The study runs from January 2024 to December 2027.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- To be added laterCity only-, England
Common questions
What is 'advanced dementia'?
Advanced dementia means that the condition has progressed to a stage where people need a lot of help with daily activities and communication.
What are 'sensory activities'?
These are gentle activities that stimulate senses like touch, smell, and hearing, such as soft hand massages, calming music, or pleasant scents, to bring comfort and connection.
Do I have to be a legal guardian to be a 'family caregiver' in the study?
No, you don't need to be their legal guardian. You just need to be a family member actively involved in their care and support.
Where is this study happening?
This study is running in nursing homes across seven different European countries.
Can I leave the study if I change my mind?
Yes, taking part is completely voluntary, and you can withdraw from the study at any time without needing to give a reason.
How to find out more
Nicola Cornally
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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