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Optimising Online Peer Support for People with Young Onset Dementia
Esther Vera Gerritzen1, Martin Orrell1, Orii McDermott1
1Institute of Mental Health, Mental Health and Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2TU, UK.
Young Onset Dementia (YOD) peer support online engagement is hindered by uncertainty and fear of advanced dementia stages. Clear group descriptions and tailored facilitation are key to improving participation for people with YOD.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
Background:
- Young Onset Dementia (YOD) presents unique challenges for individuals and their support systems.
- Online peer support offers a valuable avenue for connection and shared experience, yet engagement remains a concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate barriers to online peer support engagement for individuals with YOD.
- To identify strategies for increasing participation in online peer support for YOD.
- To determine factors contributing to the effectiveness of online peer support for YOD.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study involving nine semi-structured interviews with people diagnosed with YOD.
- Interviews were conducted via Microsoft Teams to facilitate remote participation.
- Thematic analysis was employed to interpret the interview data.
Main Results:
- Hesitancy stems from uncertainty about the experience and anxiety regarding exposure to advanced dementia stages.
- Difficulties in identifying suitable peer support groups based on individual needs and interests were reported.
- Providing detailed group descriptions by facilitators is crucial for informed participant selection.
Conclusions:
- Addressing user uncertainty and providing clear group information can enhance online peer support engagement for YOD.
- Facilitator-led guidance and tailored group descriptions are vital for successful online peer support.
- Findings inform the development of best practice guidelines for YOD online support and broader digital health access for dementia patients.
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