Enriching the lives of care home residents

It is estimated that dementia affects about 80 per cent of residents in care homes. With the number of people with dementia expected to double in the next 30 years, research cannot solely be about finding a cure, it must also be about finding the best way to support people living with dementia. 

For care homes, research can directly and indirectly enhance the quality of life of residents and provide an opportunity for professional staff development. For residents, research gives this vulnerable population a voice, which is important for people with dementia who often have communication difficulties.

The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) ENRICH ‘Enabling Research In Care Homes’ programme is the first national care home research network in the world. It aims to broaden the research landscape by encouraging stronger partnerships between researchers, care home staff and residents.