The Meaning and Experience of Gratitude in Dementia
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The Meaning and Experience of Gratitude for People Living with Dementia.
IRAS ID
198865
Contact name
Martha Pearson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Humber NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 3 months, 30 days
Research summary
This study aims to explore the meaning and experience of gratitude for people living with dementia. The number of people living with dementia is growing rapidly, however the evidence base for psychosocial interventions to help people live well with dementia remains patchy and research has largely focused on the reduction of cognitive symptoms and caregiver burden. There has been a recent surge of interest in positive psychology and the fostering of positive emotions and constructs such as happiness and gratitude. The evidence base relating to gratitude is growing, and indicates links between higher gratitude levels and better well-being, with gratitude interventions enhancing well-being. Research has begun to examine gratitude in many populations, both clinical and non-clinical. The study of gratitude in dementia may offer valuable information relating to the role of gratitude for people living with dementia and whether gratitude can be sustained or fostered in dementia.
A mixed-methods study is proposed to explore the meaning and experience of gratitude for people living with dementia, and to explore the usability and acceptability of a gratitude diary methodology with this participant group. The study will use both semi-structured interviews and diaries to explore the meaning and experience of gratitude in dementia. This would involve participants engaging in an interview for 30-60 minutes where the researcher would ask some questions about the meaning and experience of gratitude for them, and their experience of living with dementia. Participants would then be offered the opportunity to keep a diary over the following week, recording up to three things they have felt grateful for each day. At the end of the diary they would answer a questionnaire about the usability and acceptability of keeping the diary. The study aims to recruit around 10 older adults (aged 65 and older) living with a diagnosis of dementia in the community, through local voluntary third sector organisations and advocacy agencies, local and national dementia forums and NHS trusts.REC name
North East - York Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/NE/0179
Date of REC Opinion
25 May 2016
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion