Alzheimer’s Australia’s Consumer Dementia Research Network (CDRN) is a national network of consumers who will provide valuable input into a variety of research and knowledge translation (putting research into practice) activities in the field of dementia care. It is an opportunity for individuals with dementia, family carers and friends of individuals with dementia to inform research and knowledge translation priorities through their experiences and expertise. The network has been established by Alzheimer’s Australia in partnership with the Dementia Collaborative Research Centres and with support from the Dementia Collaborative Research Centre - Carers and Consumers (DCRC-CC) as part of the Australian Government's Dementia Initiative.
What are members expected to contribute?
Members will provide their perspective on what matters to consumers and are not expected to be experts in research. They will be provided with appropriate training and information about the research process to support them in their role.
What type of activities will members be involved in?
The main work of the network will be to provide a consumer perspective on a variety of issues around dementia care research and translating research into practice. Initially, this will include involvement with the recently established Alzheimer’s Australia National Quality Dementia Care Network (NQDCN) and the Dementia Collaborative Research Centres (DCRC’s).
As the network evolves, involvement with these groups may include:
· Setting knowledge translation priorities;
· Assisting with setting research priorities;
· Commenting on knowledge translation project proposals
· Participating in research/knowledge translation projects;
· Monitoring knowledge translation projects;
· Assisting with communicating the outcomes of dementia research and kowledge translation projects to the community;
· Providing information and advice to researchers on how to improve their interactions with consumers; and
· Advising the management of the NQDCN through representation on the Executive Committee.
Where can I get more Information?
For more information on the Consumer Dementia Research Network please contact Dr Ellen Skladzien on 02 6278 8927 or email.
created: 7 June 2010
