New radio documentary explores how researchers in Ireland are working to support people with dementia
In ‘New Knowledge’, we meet researchers working in new ways to support people living with dementia, to better understand its causes, and to plan for a future where dementia is on the increase.
In Ireland, more than 55,000 people are living with dementia. As a health-issue it consumes more money than stroke, cancer and heart disease put together. Many fantastic healthcare and community initiatives are in place to provide healthcare and support to those people, as well as to the countless friends, family, and community members that are caring for them. This documentary follows three Irish scientists who are working to improve the lives of people with dementia in new and unexpected ways.
The Global Brain Health Institute (GBHI) is a unique collaboration between researchers in Ireland and in the US that brings together people from lots of different areas of expertise: artists, psychologists, music therapists, neuroscientists, pilates teachers - all dedicated to protecting the world’s aging populations from threats to brain health. GBHI brings together a mix of disciplines, professions, backgrounds, skills, perspectives, and approaches to develop new science-based solutions. Their aim is to create social change, reduce stigma, and inspire optimism and dignity for people with dementia and at-risk populations
With appropriate support, many people living with dementia can and should be enabled to continue to engage and contribute within society and have a good quality of life. That’s why some of the most important research being done right now is on how we can improve the quality of life of people with dementia, as quickly and effectively as possible.
"New Knowledge" was produced by Maurice Kelliher and Shaun O'Boyle, and was supported by a grant from the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, as part of the Sound And Vision Scheme.
Listen to "New Knowledge"" on Newstalk on Sunday January 3rd 2021 at 7am, repeated on Saturday January 10th, 2020 at 9pm.
The documentary will be available as a podcast after its first broadcast.
‘New Knowledge’ features:
- GBHI Co-Director, Professor Ian Robertson
- Neuroscientist and GBHI Fellow, Dr David Loughrey
- Psychologist and GBHI Fellow, Dr Catherine Jordan
- Dementia Advocate and GBHI Fellow, Wambui Karanja
About the producers:
Artist/maker Maurice Kelliher and science advocate and communicator Shaun O’Boyle—akaBUREAU—began co-producing documentaries and podcasts in 2013. They have produced audio for: BBC Radio 4, Irish Design 2015, Science Gallery Dublin, Documentaries on Newstalk, Festival of Curiosity, LGBT History Month UK, Science Gallery International, University College Dublin, Inspirefest, and BBC World Service. They have been supported by: Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, Science Foundation Ireland, and the Mary Raftery Journalism Fund. akabureau.com
