With the Black Country facing a slightly higher-than-average regional dementia diagnosis rate, we are playing a key role in national research, focusing on compassion-based therapies to improve the overall mental health and wellbeing in those living with the condition.
Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is part of a group of three Trusts investigating compassion-based therapy as an alternative for treating depression and anxiety in people diagnosed with dementia. This approach encourages patients to explore their relationship to themselves and others with the aim of improving their mental health and wellbeing as they navigate their diagnosis. This differs from current treatments where patients are offered any combination of well-established medication and non-medication treatments, or other signposting advice and support.
With an ageing global population and older adult care high on the national agenda, this can significantly impact approaches to dementia therapy - allowing patients to be independent for longer, improve quality of life and focus on giving care within the community wherever it is possible.
The Older Adult Therapeutic Services (OATS) team took part in the study, screening eligible patients, supporting the random allocation to either receive the Compassion Focused Therapy or other interventions as they would have normally. They facilitated the Compassion Focused Therapy for two groups of patients over a twelve-week period.
The national study team are currently analysing the results to determine the possible benefits of the therapy compared to usual treatments, and hope that a further randomised control trial will successfully be granted later in the year.
Gemma Lockley, Clinical Lead for Older Adult Therapeutic Services said:
"It's a great honour to be involved in national research where we can have a real positive impact on people within the Black Country, which can then be used to influence treatments and therapy on a national scale.
"We have all enjoyed being part of the research group with Trusts across the country, advocating for the needs of people diagnosed with dementia and working together within the community to maintain their quality of life and independence for as long as possible.
Ann Detheridge, Divisional Lead Consultant Psychologist for Older Adults said:
“It is so important to us that more people in need are supported to remain independent and with their loved ones for as long as possible. Taking part in this research allows us to be at the forefront of innovation when it comes to caring for older adults.
"Over the past few years, we've been on a journey of transformation, and we are proud of how we are responding to the changing needs of our Black Country people by understanding how best to support individuals and their families, through developing new services and being a part of national research.
"We're looking forward to the results of the initial stage and are keen to be involved in any future phases.”