The University of Queensland Researcher and NHMRC Boosting Dementia Research Leadership Fellow, Dr Nadeeka Dissanayaka has received a $75,000 pilot project grant from The Dementia Centre for Research Collaboration.
Dr Dissanayaka’s project aims to test a new psychotherapeutic intervention delivered via video-conferencing to help combat anxiety in people living with dementia, regardless of where they live.
“Our project will develop and pilot test a robust and accessible telehealth option to deliver a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy program to reduce anxiety in people living with dementia,” Dr Dissanayaka said.
“As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, lockdowns and continuous social isolation, an increase in anxiety has been observed in people living with dementia, particularly in those living in aged care.”
“There are inadequate anxiety treatment options available for people with dementia.”
“The ultimate goal is that the project proves to successfully reduce anxiety in people living with dementia and that it’s rolled out on a national scale.”
The Dementia Centre for Research Collaboration grants are highly competitive and sought after in the research sector.
Dr Dissanyaka’s work is also supported by Lions Australia and a number of Lions clubs within Queensland. Members of the Lions clubs are collaboratively involved in promoting the research and have been integral to UQCCR establishing a positive partnership with the greater community.
The telehealth project is just one of a number of research projects currently being run by Dr Dissanayaka and her team at UQ’s Centre for Clinical Research (UQCCR) Dementia and Neuro Mental Health Research Unit.
