DEM-VW
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Evaluating virtual wards to support people with Dementia
IRAS ID
364817
Contact name
Nathan Davies
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Joint research Management Office - Queen Mary University
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 9 months, 4 days
Research summary
Background
People with dementia often prefer to be treated at home. Hospitals are often not the best place for people with dementia to be cared for. Hospitals can be distressing for the person and family carers. Many people with dementia leave hospital having deteriorated both physically and cognitively. Virtual wards are being rolled out across the UK to support hospital level care at home. However, little is known about how virtual wards support people with dementia.
Aim
To explore how and when virtual wards work best for all people with dementia.
Methods
In-depth case studies of four virtual ward services. We will conduct observations and interviews with people with dementia, carers and staff; and run statistical studies of previously collected data to describe different ways to deliver these services, experiences, and what helps and hinders delivery.
A national survey of all virtual ward services in England to understand how they are run and how they support people with dementia.
Co-producing recommendations by bringing together findings from our earlier studies. We will invite a range of stakeholders (people living with dementia, family carers, health and care professionals) to attend workshops considering future directions and recommendations for practice and policy.
Outcomes
A list of recommendations for policy and services highlighting how to support people with dementia in their home and family carers, whilst reducing inequalities.REC name
Wales REC 7
REC reference
26/WA/0051
Date of REC Opinion
16 Mar 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion