National Dementia Conference 2025

The theme for the 17th International Dementia Conference was ‘Bridging Worlds in Dementia Care: Connecting Global Perspectives and Local Solutions’.

17th International Dementia Conference Photo Gallery
May 2025, Athlone Springs Hotel, Athlone

Click on any of the images below to see the full picture in a pop-out window. Thank you so much to everyone who contributed an image to this gallery. If you would like to have your photos added please email them to conference@engagingdementia.ie.

Timetables

Day One, 7th May 2025

(Click the small arrow beside any of the listings to expand and see the full description)

Plenary Stage

Doors will open at 10am.

Please follow the signs to the registration desk to sign in.                   

Light refreshments will be served and there will be time to visit our exhibitors and network before the conference formally opens.

Engaging Dementia CEO Kim Tully will welcome attendees to the 17th International Dementia Conference.

Picture of Engaging Dementia CEO Kim Tully

Kim joined Engaging Dementia as CEO in late 2020. 

She has over 20+ years of experience in diverse roles for a renowned global organisation, and is enjoying her move into the community and voluntary sector. Kim has a Master’s Degree in International Business from the University of South Carolina, USA. 

Since the Sonas Programme is 35 years old this year, we have asked Sister Mary Threadgold to say a few words to conference attendees.
 

Kieran O’Donnell is Minister of State at the Department of Health with special responsibility for Older People and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage with special responsibility for Housing. He was appointed to these roles on 29 January 2025.

He previously served as Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works since April 2024, and as Minister of State for Local Government and Planning at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage from December 2022 to April 2024.

Minister O’Donnell is the Fine Gael TD for Limerick City Constituency. First elected in May 2007, he was re-elected in 2011 and 2020.

Dr. O’Dowd will provide an overview on emerging disease-modifying therapies in Alzheimer’s disease, including an update on the regulatory landscape and implications for the Irish healthcare system”

Dr Seán O’Dowd is a Consultant Neurologist with a special interest in cognitive disorders and has been Clinical Lead for the HSE’s National Dementia Services since October 2022. He commenced his higher specialist training in Neurology in 2009 by completing an MD on CSF biomarkers in neurodegenerative disease. He subsequently completed further subspecialty clinical training in Newcastle upon Tyne, with a focus on Lewy body diseases. In 2017 he established a specialist Cognitive Clinic in Tallaght University Hospital, now an integral part of the Regional Specialist Memory Centre, which he co-directs with gerontologist Professor Sean Kennelly. His clinic at TUH serves as a tertiary referral unit particularly for patients with atypical and young-onset neurodegenerative syndromes.

Dr. Helen Rochford-Brennan is a Global Dementia Ambassador from Ireland. Originally from Co. Sligo, Helen is former Chair Irish Dementia Working Group, Former Chair European Dementia Working Group and a  Former Board Member of Alzheimer Europe.

This talk will introduce the concept of brain health and how we are dovetailing brain health approaches with our increasing recognition and care of very early stage cognitive decline in Ireland. The potential for lifestyle modification to address brain health will be touched on. 

Professor Iracema Leroi is Professor in Geriatric Psychiatry, holding positions at Trinity College Dublin and, and Director of the Global Brain Health Institute (www.gbhi.org) at Trinity. She also serves as a consultant geriatric psychiatrist at St. James’ Hospital, Dublin. Trained in Canada and the United States, including in the neuropsychiatry program at Johns Hopkins University, she previously held the role of Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Manchester. During her tenure there, she founded and led the Greater Manchester Dementia Clinical Trials Programme.

Currently, Professor Leroi leads the HRB-CTN Dementia Trials Ireland network and oversees a portfolio of drug and non-drug clinical trials for dementia at St. James’ Hospital. Her research focus centres on the mental health aspects of Lewy body diseases, exemplified by her leadership of the 4-year HRB-funded EMERALD Lewy program. This initiative aims to enhance the diagnosis and care of individuals with Lewy body dementia. Professor Leroi was also the Chief Investigator of the EU-wide Horizon 2020 SENSE-Cog program.

A full catered lunch will be available

The North Cork Dementia Alliance (formerly The Crystal Project) supports people with dementia and their families. Founded in 2013, it was awarded Genio Funding in 2015. Based in the Memory Resource Room in Mallow Primary Healthcare Centre, it involves collaboration between the HSE, The Alzheimer Society of Ireland and Ballyhoura Rural Services. It offers a large range of services including counselling, memory groups, fitness groups, singing groups, social clubs,  dementia cafes and more. www.ncdementiaalliance.ie

Sheena Cadoo is a Senior Occupational Therapist, based in the Memory Resource Room in Mallow Primary Healthcare Centre. She has been working in a dementia post since 2010 and is lead of the North Cork Dementia Alliance. Sheena has an MSc in Dementia Care from Trinity College.

Charlie Drake used to be a fulltime company representative travelling the 26 Counties up to his retirement. He has always been a people person, self-motivated and involved in a whole lot of organizations / groups, clubs and associations. In 2018 he was diagnosed with dementia and referred to the North Cork Dementia.

Mike Hanrahan is a founding member of the band Stockton’s Wing. He has been a family carer for ten years and it is this lived experience that inspires him to support all who care and all who search for better ways to treat those who live with dementia and related brain health issues.

His creative interaction and performances with The Forget Me Nots Choir, an age and dementia friendly choir, strengthens his belief in nurturing an inclusive age friendly society. He is creating innovative ways to bring moments of joy and fulfilment to those who live with dementia. Mike wishes to explore further this connection between the arts and brain health.

Paul will outline what the Model of Care is, offer an update on progress to date on various initiatives and services and future plans.

In February 2023, Paul was appointed to the post of Programme Manager, National Dementia Services.  He supported the delivery and launch of the Dementia Model of Care (MoC) in May 2023.  He is currently focused on implementing the MoC through the delivery of diagnostic services, increasing public awareness, implementation of clinical guidelines and expansion of dementia education opportunities. Prior to taking up this National Post, Paul worked as an Occupational Therapist in Beaumont Hospital. Between 2006-2023 he has held senior, clinical specialist and OT Manager in charge III roles.  He has a keen interest in older persons and has worked in all areas under the Care of the Older Persons umbrella at Beaumont Hospital including the acute setting, rehabilitation, day services and the Emergency Department. 

The presentation will be on how IHF training supports those caring for people at end of life across all settings- home, hospital, Nursing home, and into bereavement using a person centred approach.  

End of life care across the continuum,  supporting personalised care wishes.

Siobhan Murphy is the director of Healthcare at Irish Hospice foundation, with responsibility for  National Programmes across the healthcare settings.  Siobhan is a registered general nurse, and spent her nursing career working in Palliative Care  in Hospice, homecare and acute settings.  She then worked in managerial and leadership roles in the HSE, in both disability and Primary Care settings..  Siobhan has always had a huge interest in Palliative and End-of -life care, and believes that every person has a role to play in end-of-life care.

Carmel‘s personal experience of becoming her late Mum’s primary carer prompted her to establish Dementia Ireland Empowering Communities. Dementia Ireland advocates for the rights of those whose voice is not heard – highlighting social and rural isolation is very important Advocating for support and services for those not reached or heard and for the paid and unpaid care support. 

Agnes Houston MBE, will first give an overview of her story, her research and the book that she has written “Dementia & Sensory Challenges:  Dementia can be more than memory”. Agnes will then be joined by Facilitator Carmel Geoghegan, and other panellists including Kevin Quaid, Suzanna Dooley and others to discuss sensory challenges as well as some practical ways to address them.

Agnes Houston MBE is a member of the Dementia Alumni, Vice Chair of the European Dementia Working Group and board member of Dementia Alliance International. She is also an Exchange Fellow at the University of Edinburgh and former chair of the Scottish Dementia Working Group.  Agnes Houston was diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer’s Dementia in 2006 at the age of 57.

Kevin Quaid is 61 years old and married to Helena. He was first diagnosed with Parkinson’s, just over 11years ago, then later diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia also. He is the current Chair of the Irish Dementia Working Group, the Chair of the European Working Group of People With Dementia, on the board of Alzheimer Europe, he is the Co founder of Lewy Body Ireland.

Dr. Suzanna Dooley is a CORU registered Speech and Language Therapist (SLT) with a clinical speciality in the area of dementia and communication. She completed her PhD in Trinity College Dublin (TCD) in 2022 and she has worked in a variety of clinical settings in Ireland and Australia over the past 25 years. Suzanna has worked in community care, acute care, rehabilitation and residential care, where she worked with people with swallowing and communication disorders. She is an adjunct professor in TCD and is very interested in the education and training of SLTs and all health care professionals. Her teaching, practice and research focuses on the assessment of cognitive communication disorders in dementia and the development of communication interventions for people with dementia and their supporters.

Faye Hueston runs several Audiology clinics in the Limerick and Kerry area for Hidden Hearing who she has been with for the last four years.  She is a qualified Hearing Aid Audiologist and also has a qualification in Counselling and Psychotherapy which allows her to interact with her patients in a unique way by taking a patient centred approach to their care.

Suzanna will be sharing a methodology which assesses the cognitive communication abilities of individuals with dementia. This assessment in turn will inform care pathways on communication and be of benefit to interdisciplinary teams in supporting decision-making. 

Dr. Suzanna Dooley is a CORU registered Speech and Language Therapist (SLT) with a clinical speciality in the area of dementia and communication. She completed her PhD in Trinity College Dublin (TCD) in 2022 and she has worked in a variety of clinical settings in Ireland and Australia over the past 25 years. Suzanna has worked in community care, acute care, rehabilitation and residential care, where she worked with people with swallowing and communication disorders. She is an adjunct professor in TCD and is very interested in the education and training of SLTs and all health care professionals. Her teaching, practice and research focuses on the assessment of cognitive communication disorders in dementia and the development of communication interventions for people with dementia and their supporters.

Dr. Irene Hartigan is a nurse, educator, and senior researcher at University College Cork, specializing in dementia care, therapeutic environments, and interdisciplinary training programs. She was part of the winning UCC Research Team of the Year 2024, recognized for her contributions to dementia care and her work in improving quality of life for adults with cognitive impairments. Her research bridges healthcare, education, and multi-stakeholder collaboration, developing an EU training program that integrates choice, communication, and connection to enrich therapeutic interventions. 

Dr. Hartigan has led and contributed to funded research projects exceeding €10 million, focusing on evidence-based training programs, enriched rehabilitation spaces, and the role of nature and animals in therapy.

Parallel Stage

Doors will open at 10am.

Please follow the signs to the registration desk to sign in.                   

Light refreshments will be served and there will be time to visit our exhibitors and network before the conference formally opens.

Presentations on the parallel stage will begin at 11:10am

The aim of this study was to generate a theory, explaining how people with dementia process or resolve issues relating to sense of self, understood primarily in terms of addressing their main concern of losing me. This research provides a multivariate theory of how people living with dementia hold on to their sense of self through navigating relationships with themselves and others and holding on to what has meaning for them. It offers valuable insights for families, caregivers, healthcare providers, and policymakers, in terms how the self can be recognised and supported in dementia.

Susan O’Reilly, FFSNMRCSI, PhD candidate, BNS, MSc Int Dis Nursing, PGDip Dementia, MSc Research, RNP, PGCert Advanced Nursing Practice. Susan O’Reilly is Assistant Director of Nursing for Dementia Quality.

She previously worked as RANP and CNS in Older Persons, Dementia Care in Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown. From 2015-2018 she was lead nurse for the Connolly Hospital, Genio funded project developing and implementing integrated care pathways for people living with dementia and their caregivers availing of acute services. She is currently completing her PHD (DCU), researching the perspectives of people living with dementia in relation to self and autonomy.

Kevin is 61 years old and married to Helena. He was first diagnosed with Parkinson’s, just over 11years ago, then later diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia also. He is the current Chair of the Irish Dementia Working Group, the Chair of the European Working Group of People With Dementia, on the board of Alzheimer Europe, he is the Co-founder of Lewy Body Ireland. Kevin is also a member of the Dementia Research Advisory Team as well as Dementia Trials Ireland. 

He is very involved in various Research projects not just in Ireland but also across Europe as an Expert by experience and is the Author of two books about Lewy Body Dementia.

The Evaluating the Volunteer Impact in St Joseph’s (ENVISJ) study aimed to assess the impact of the Volunteer Program in St Joseph’s Shankill. This program provides additional support to residents and service users, and anecdotal evidence suggests it benefits all stakeholders.

Nicola Yau is the volunteer manager in St Joseph’s and the Principal Investigator on the project. Nicola oversaw the design and running of the project in St Joseph’s.

Eric Whelan is a trainee educational psychologist with the HSE and is completing his doctoral training in UCD. He worked as the Research Assistant on the ENVISJ study to design the study, conduct the data collection, and analyse the data.

Siobhan Grant is the fundraising manager in St Joseph’s and provided the initial energy, aim, direction and structure for the study. Siobhan has advised the running of the study throughout.

Delegates will learn how to navigate discussions on sexuality and intimacy in dementia care with confidence. Caregivers, healthcare professionals, and families will gain practical insights into existing guidelines, identify gaps, and explore strategies to create inclusive and person-centered care environments.

Dr. Hannah Christie is a Cameron Lecturer at the School of Population Health at RCSI. Her research focuses on improving equity in innovations for dementia care. Her previous positions were at Maastricht University (the Netherlands), where she was a PhD student with the MSCA ITN project INDUCT (2016-2020) and a postdoctoral researcher (2020-2024). She has a BSc and MSc in Psychology from KU Leuven (Belgium).

A full catered lunch will be available

This project focussed on the co-design of a user-friendly leaflet that provides essential suipport information, ensuring it is accessible, practical and responsive to the needs of those it serves.

Cathy McHale BA, H Dip CompSc, H Dip Health & Safety at work, HDip Gerontological Nursing, M.Sc. Advanced Practice Nursing. Cathy works as a Registered Advanced Nurse Practitioner in the Institute of Memory & Cognition of TUH. She has a special interest in dementia, delirium, brain health and the humanities. She has contributed to National Working Groups on dementia, delirium and frailty. Educational contributions include Gerontological & Stroke Nursing Modules, B.Sc. Nursing & CGIDP Internship Orientation, National Dementia Programme, Family Dementia Training & Diploma in Medicine for the Older Person (RCPI) and national integration group for Dementia Adviser Service.

Her current role includes cognitive assessment of patients and participation in delivering Post-Diagnostic Care. She contributes to the Research arm of the TUH Memory Service and is part of clinical trial activity there.

Dementia is a global health challenge posing significant societal and economic implications. Louise will present on the areas that The INTEREST (INnovaTions in divERsity and Equity in Social health research in DemenTia) working group examined:

1) inequities leading to unmet needs;

2) psychosocial intervention guidelines in Europe;

3) personalisability of existing technological interventions;

4) policy implications and recommendations.

Dr Louise Hopper is an Associate Professor of Psychology and Programme Chair of the BSc in Psychology and Mathematics in DCU. Louise leads research relating to health and social care policy and supports for dementia, developing a model for a National Dementia Registry, dementia and assistive technology, and dementia-related education. She coordinates a European group examining Innovations in diversity and equity in social health research in dementia (INTEREST). She is a member of the INTERDEM group and a Board member of IPPOSI (Irish Platform for Patient Organisation, Science and Industry).

Margaret will present on the Mental, physical and social benefits of community based exercise classes for people living with dementia.

Margaret Mc Entee has worked in Healthcare and Social Care since 2001. She completed
her MSc in Dementia at the University of Hull in 2024 and now works as a Dementia Services Coordinator for the North Cork Dementia Alliance.
 
Her dissertation, The Experience of People Living with Dementia Attending a Community-Based Exercise Class, explored the impact of exercise classes organised by the NCDA. Her research highlighted the benefits of tailored exercise programs in improving physical health, happiness, and social connections for people living with dementia, emphasising the importance of supportive staff and adaptable environments.

Neil will present on the “Care for Yourself’ programme that is designed to equip carers of persons with dementia with the essential tools and strategies to deliver high-quality care while maintaining their own physical and mental health.

Neil is a nutritionist, a trained Dementia Prevention Coach, with certifications in Cognitive Stimulation Therapy, Knowledge and Skills for Dementia Care, and MoCA Assessment. He completed a postgraduate in Healthcare Innovation at Trinity College, Dublin in 2023 where he developed ‘PREVENT – An Alzheimer’s Prevention Initiative, delivered as part of adult education in several community schools, nursing homes, daycare centres and the Dementia Cafés in Cork, and ‘Care for Yourself’ – a programme designed to equip carers of persons with dementia with the essential tools and strategies to deliver high-quality care while maintaining their own physical and mental health.

Niamh will present on how dance interventions show positive changes in mood and behaviour, including reduced feelings of depression and anxiety reflecting an improved quality of life measure for both people living with dementia and their care partners.

Niamh Kelly is a final year PhD student at the Technological University of the Shannon. Niamh’s project involves developing, implementing and evaluating a Céilí dance exercise intervention for people living with dementia. She has a BSc in Sport Science and an MSc in Sports Performance Analysis from I.T. Carlow.

Qiuxia and Ray will discuss the role and practice of PPI in dementia caregiver research, showcasing how co-design with caregivers enhances relevance, accessibility, and impact.

Qiuxia Li is a PhD researcher at the University of Galway, focusing on developing an online psychosocial intervention for informal caregivers of people with dementia. In this project, she collaborates with her supervisors, Dr. Sinéad Hynes and Prof. Kieran Walsh, and a PPI group on a systematic review and intervention co-development. Before starting her PhD, Qiuxia earned a bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation Therapy and a master’s degree in Rehabilitation Medicine. She gained clinical practice experience during her internships at hospitals, where she had direct interacted with people with dementia and their caregivers. This experience inspired her interest in dementia research. 

Ray Lucey is a former caregiver to his late mother, Eileen. During his time in this role, he sought additional support and became actively involved with Family Carers Ireland (FCI). A media production professional, Ray has used his expertise to highlight carers’ issues and campaign for their rights. He remains totally committed to raising public awareness and supporting carers through advocacy and involvement in multiple research projects. Ray seeks innovative solutions to reduce carer isolation through online engagement and participation with various focus groups, in conjunction with highly focused and compassionate PhD researchers who understand carers’ needs through qualitative study. 

The Cuimhne Group was established in 2023 in response to a young couple’s interest in networking and socialising in a fun supportive environment outside a clinical setting. Cuimhne Group members are Plwd (U65) & their spouses. Amy’s presentation will show that there is a place for an accessible, safe and supportive social pathway for people with dementia and their families.

Amy Murphy, Dementia Adviser with The Alzheimer Society Of Ireland. As a dementia adviser, Amy works with people of all ages who are awaiting a diagnosis or have received a diagnosis of dementia. The service is free & confidential. Dementia advisers work with both the PLwd & their families to maintain independence, wellbeing & choice.

Day Two, 8th May 2025

 (Click the small arrow beside any of the listings to expand and see the full description)

Plenary Stage

Doors will open at 9am.

Please follow the signs to the registration desk to sign in.                   

Light refreshments will be served and there will be time to visit our exhibitors and network before the conference formally opens.

Engaging Dementia CEO Kim Tully will welcome attendees to the 17th International Dementia Conference.

Picture of Engaging Dementia CEO Kim Tully

Kim joined Engaging Dementia as CEO in late 2020. 

She has over 20+ years of experience in diverse roles for a renowned global organisation, and is enjoying her move into the community and voluntary sector. Kim has a Master’s Degree in International Business from the University of South Carolina, USA. 

The Living Lab in Ageing and Long-Term Care is a collaborative initiative where academia and long-term care (LTC) providers join forces to enhance the quality of life and care for older adults in LTC, as well as the quality of work for staff. This partnership encompasses academics, LTC staff, residents, and relatives working together to conduct research and apply research findings in practice.

Sil is a psychologist, with a master in neuropsychology. Her PhD trajectory, which was conducted at two different research schools of the University of Maastricht (i.e. department of General Practice and the department of Mental Health and Neuroscience), focused on multimorbidity, i.e. the co-occurrence of two or more chronic conditions within one person, and the adverse health effects thereof. Her love for analyzing methods (traditional statistical methods as well as more innovative approaches such as data-science techniques), is apparent throughout her academic career and therefore plays an important role in her current research.

Irma Everink started with a Bachelor of General Health Sciences at Maastricht University. She completed her bachelor’s degree in 2007 and enrolled in the master’s ‘Health Services Innovation’ this same year. After graduating in 2009 she went traveling through South-East Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. Shortly after her return to the Netherlands, she started a second master’s at the Maastricht Graduate School of Governance.

Frank Golden, pictured here with wife Jackie.

While working as a barrister and law lecturer, Frank wrote a novel which he published in 2023, four years into his Alzheimer’s diagnosis. He is at present compiling a collection based on the derivation of words and phrases.

This panel discussion will bring together experts, family carers, and individuals living with dementia to explore the key challenges and opportunities in caregiving today. Facilitated by Helen Rochford-Brennan, the conversation will feature personal insights, sector perspectives, and a curated discussion on caring in Ireland.

Dr. Helen Rochford-Brennan is a Global Dementia Ambassador from Ireland. Originally from Co. Sligo, Helen is former Chair Irish Dementia Working Group, Former Chair European Dementia Working Group and a  Former Board Member of Alzheimer Europe.

Michael Wright opened the first private home care business in County Tipperary in 2008, opening Ireland’s 12th Dovida (previously known as Home Instead Ireland) office in Thurles. Having ran a highly successful franchise business for 11 years, providing services to private clients and HSE older persons and disability funded service users, Michael sold his franchise back to Dovida corporate. As Dovida’s new Director of Public Affairs, Michael developed Dovida’s public affairs strategy and successfully co-ordinated activity between private and not-for-profit home care organisations. Michael then worked as Dovida’s Director of Sales where he developed its private Live-in Care business before moving to the role as Director of Corporate Operations. With only one Dovida franchise office remaining in Ireland, Dovida no longer considers itself a franchise organisation and Michael now leads on growth across Dovida’s Irish business.

Clare Duffy is Family Carers Ireland, Policy and Public Affairs Manager. She has been the Policy and Public Affairs Manager with Family Carers Ireland since 2008 and is responsible for leading the organisation’s policy and public affairs functions. She is passionate about securing positive change for family carers and works closely with Government and policymakers to help shape and advance carer policy. She has advocated for many years for better recognition and support for family carers particularly in relation to financial support, pension rights and healthcare.

Agnes Houston MBE is a member of the Dementia Alumni, Vice Chair of the European Dementia Working Group and board member of Dementia Alliance International. She is also an Exchange Fellow at the University of Edinburgh and former chair of the Scottish Dementia Working Group.  Agnes Houston was diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer’s Dementia in 2006 at the age of 57.

Pauline Lee is a registered General Nurse, Registered Psychiatric Nurse and BSC in Nursing management. Worked as Director of Nursing in Older Persons Services. Currently Project Manager for the implementation of the Irish National  dementia Strategy (doh2014) Midlands Louth Meath CHO.  Project lead for the Memory Assessment and Support Service (MASS) Longford/ Westmeath. Completed a masters in Dementia in Trinity College 2024.

Carmel’s personal experience of becoming her late Mum’s primary carer prompted her to establish Dementia Ireland Empowering Communities. Dementia Ireland advocates for the rights of those whose voice is not heard – highlighting social and rural isolation is very important Advocating for support and services for those not reached or heard and for the paid and unpaid care support. As the numbers of those receiving a diagnosis rises at an alarming rate it is vital that the spotlight is held on the less vocal.

This presentation will provide an update on recent research emerging from the International CST Centre, and an overview research trends in CST in Ireland. Evidence-informed recommendations for the delivery of CST will be provided and suggestions for future research will be explored.

Dr. Michelle Kelly, Associate Professor at the National College of Ireland, is a leading expert in psychology and behaviour analysis. She earned her BA (2006) and Doctorate (2011) from Maynooth University and completed a postdoc at Trinity College’s Institute of Neuroscience and the Alzheimer Society of Ireland. She co-directs the ProBrain Research Lab, leads IRC- and Alzheimer’s Society-funded projects, and supervises research across top universities. As Chair of NCI’s Psychology Ethics Subcommittee and PSI’s Division of Behaviour Analysis, she shapes policy and education while serving on editorial and accreditation boards, driving innovation in dementia care and behavioural science.

This presentation offers a twofold perspective, harmonising insights from a doctoral study on culturally adapting music-based interventions for UK Chinese elder communities with practical experiences in community engagement and support.

Xiaoxiao is a Chinese-born, classically trained musician specialising in the guzheng (Chinese zither) and piano. Since moving to the UK, the guzheng has become her primary instrument. She has performed in prestigious venues across Britain, including Westminster Concert Hall in London, Birmingham Symphony Hall, and Manchester United Football Stadium, as well as numerous community centres. 

Through her studies in Music Psychology, culminating in two master’s degrees and a PhD, Xiaoxiao discovered music’s potential beyond notation and technique. She now applies this knowledge as a trustee of Chinese Wellbeing and works closely with the Evergreen Club Choir. 

Recently, the group was awarded the Power of Music Fund, enabling them to further explore music’s role in enhancing wellbeing within a culturally familiar environment. Xiaoxiao’s unique blend of musical expertise and academic knowledge allows her to bridge Eastern and Western musical traditions, fostering cultural understanding and promoting wellbeing through music.

A full catered lunch will be available

Ronan Murphy is responsible for Accessibility at Iarnród Éireann and has a passion for improving the travelling experience for our most vulnerable customers. With rail travel a key independence factor for those living with dementia, Ronan has organised several workshops with Irish Dementia Working Group and staff at Iarnród Éireann.

Iarnród Éireann recently signed a contract with Vision Ireland for disability awareness for all our frontline staff with a strong focus on hidden disabilities. Ronan works closely with Kevin Quaid who is a member of the Iarnród Éireann Disability User Group who are consulted on all major projects and initiatives. Currently Ronan, using feedback gathered from a number of dementia working groups, is working with Iarnród Éireann Age Friendly Programme Manager and Age Friendly Ireland to make several Irish Rail stations age friendly. Ronan is also a member of the Dementia Trials Participation Panel.

 

Kevin Quaid is 61 years old and married to Helena. He was first diagnosed with Parkinson’s, just over 11years ago, then later diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia also. He is the current Chair of the Irish Dementia Working Group, the Chair of the European Working Group of People With Dementia, on the board of Alzheimer Europe, he is the Co founder of Lewy Body Ireland.

Kevin was presented in 2022 with ‘The Presidential Award’ from Longford International College Ireland, for “his outstanding achievements in bringing awareness of Lewy Body Dementia not just in Ireland but globally too” and in November 2023 Kevin was awarded an Horary Doctorate of Philosophy by the Rushford College and the Longford international College.

Edel trained at the Mater Misericordiae Hospital, Dublin, as a General Nurse, and her career took her across vast areas of Irish healthcare, including acute care, disability, complex behaviour, addiction, young chronic sick and brain injury. In 2004, Edel paved her way into older persons HSE services, where she worked as a clinical nurse specialist before commencing her Advanced Practice Journey (2017). 

Edel progressed her role in developing the ANP Féileacán Bán Nursing Service, officially opened by Minister Butler in December 2022. This nursing service model provides care and support from diagnosis and throughout the dementia journey, bringing care back to community settings. Edel’s passion encompasses person-centred, rights-based care inclusive of family to all older adults living with dementia. Her interests lie in research, particularly the 3 D’s, Non-Cognitive Symptoms, interdisciplinary workings and care pathway innovation.

Join us for an engaging discussion on the role of Dementia Cafés in supporting people living with dementia and their families. This panel brings together diverse perspectives, featuring John, an experienced café facilitator; Noreen, who is in the process of setting up a new café; and Jackie, a family carer who has attended both in-person and online cafés with her husband, Frank.

Dementia Cafés provide a welcoming, monthly gathering for anyone affected by dementia, including individuals living with the condition, their families, healthcare professionals, and those interested in fostering dementia-inclusive communities. Run by local voluntary steering committees, these cafés are always free of charge, with over 60 currently operating across Ireland. Engaging Dementia is proud to support the Irish Dementia Café Network.

This panel will explore the challenges and rewards of running a Dementia Café, offering valuable insights from both organisers and attendees. Whether you are considering starting a café or simply want to learn more about their impact, this session will provide inspiration and practical advice.

Noreen Keane worked for many years as a SLT in the HSE. On early retirement she became a Sonas Tutor and completed a Person- centered Dementia Care course to enhance her skills. She is currently part of the steering committee which has recently set up (Oct ‘24) the Cosy Café in Kilbeggan.

John Kelly, is a Coordinator of the Meath Alzheimer Café.

He is a Mining Engineer by profession, having studied at universities in Canada and the USA in the late seventies. He worked as an engineer in mines in Canada, Northern Ireland and Scotland before coming to Tara Mines in Navan in 1991. In 1999 he became Human Resources Manager in Tara Mines, and retired from there in 2013.

In February 2015 he took a training course on setting up an Alzheimer Café, organised by the Alzheimer Society of Ireland. He was appointed as chairman of a steering committee which established the Meath Alzheimer Café later in 2015.

Jackie and Frank have been married for 56 years. Prior to her retirement from Enterprise Ireland, she worked on collaborative research and development programmes involving Irish SMEs and academics and their EU counterparts.

Maureen Garry originally from County Mayo spent much of her career running a successful printing business which she took over when her husband Irwin passed away 20 years ago.  She’s the proud mum to four children, grandmother to a growing clan of 7, and often seen as matriarch of the family.  With a deep love for family life, a wide social circle, and a partner from Wales, Maureen brings heart, humour and lived experience to her involvement in today’s discussion.

Fiona will present the research findings on Brain Health awareness and understanding amongst the general public.

Fiona Foley is a Senior Project Manager at the HSE’s National Dementia Office with responsibility for “Dementia: Understand Together” and “Brain Health”. In the past Fiona has worked with a number of advocacy and health organisations here in Ireland, such as the Alzheimer Society where she was seconded to the Health Service Executive to develop the social movement framework for Dementia Inclusive Communities. Fiona previously established Siel Bleu Ireland – a social enterprise that encourages physical exercise for older adults and those with chronic diseases. She also worked with Volvo Cars in Germany as a business and competence development manager.

This panel discussion will touch on some of the differences in Dementia care around the world. We will be joined by physicians from countries such as Ghana, Spain, New Zealand, UK, Mexico, and Ireland.

Parallel Stage

This presentation will cover the journey of Bantry Town becoming a Dementia Friendly Community from a tender seed to where we stand today. As the majority of people living with dementia (63%) live in the community, using many of the amenities and businesses, Bantry’s Aged Friendly committee decided to support independence and agency in people’s lives becoming an inclusive place to live.

Teresa Bohane, ANP Dementia in Bantry General Hospital, Co Cork. A member of Bantry’s Dementia Inclusive Community subcommittee and Bantry’s Memory Café Committee.

Sarah Cairns has been working with people with dementia for twenty-five years and has been training Health Care Professionals for 15 years. She holds a masters in Dementia Studies, a diploma Person-Centred Dementia Care from Bradford University and, since 2007, has worked nationally as a Dementia & Communication Educator and Training Consultant.

She worked with Engaging Dementia for over 10 years. For the past ten years she has sat on the steering committee of the Arts for Health Partnership Programme in West Cork, for which she also acts as Dementia Advisor. She is involved in the Bantry Memory Cafe and the Bantry Dementia Inclusive Town Initiative. Sarah is particularly interested in finding ways to support PWD to achieve agency and empowerment navigating living in their community.

The presentation will show why Group CST is a promising, feasible non-pharmacological intervention for adults with ID attending day services.

Pamela Dunne manages the Memory Service in Avista and works at the National Intellectual Disability Memory Service in TUH. As an Advanced Nurse Practitioner specialising in dementia in intellectual disability, she provides comprehensive dementia screening, diagnosis and follow-up care, while also training staff across Avista. 

Eugene’s talk will summarise the evidence to date that shows how specific nutrients of the macula can be enriched to improve macular pigment. These dietary nutrients include the macular carotenoids, lutein, zeaxanthin and meso-zeaxanthin. Noteworthy, the concentrations of these carotenoids in the macula correlate to their concentration in the brain. 

Eugene studied Business Studies in Exeter University before working in Australia. In 1992, he commenced work with West Midland Optical Ireland Ltd (WM). The largest independently owned Optical supplier in Ireland. Eugene developed new markets for WM in the UK, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands. Having moved back to Ireland in 2000, and together with Declan Counihan took over West Midland Optical and formed WMO Healthcare in the following years. 

In 2008 Eugene was introduced to Prof John Nolan from The Nutrition Research Centre Ireland (NRCI) at which time he learned of the amazing research into AMD that was being undertaken in Waterford Institute of Technology by Prof Nolan. Eugene has followed Prof Nolan’s work very closely over the years and was responsible for launching numerous products, the formulations of which were invented by NRCI, such as MacuPrime and ReMind, for the prevention of AMD and Alzheimer’s Disease with amazing success here in Ireland.

Social frailty occurs when people are at risk of losing the social resources needed to feel supported. In Ireland, over 4,300 individuals aged under 65 live with young-onset dementia (YOD). YOD can interrupt employment and family roles, presenting unique challenges. This may lead to social isolation and subsequently to social frailty, affecting social health. Currently social health research mostly focuses on older adults with dementia, and subsequently overlooks the unique social challenges experienced by people with YOD. The aim of this study was to identify the rates of and contributing factors to social frailty and social isolation in people living in the community with YOD.

Ziyue Wang is a third-year PhD student in the School of Nursing and Midwifery at University of Galway. Her research focuses on young-onset dementia and social health. With Dr. Aisling Flynn, Dr. Andrew Hunter & Dr. Duygu Sezgin

The presentation will show the positive impact ofa Lawn Bowls programme for people living with Dementia living at home and their carers supported by volunteers and dementia health care professionals.

As the Fundraising Manager at Saint Joseph’s Shankill since 2015, Siobhan has enjoyed making a difference to the lives of people living with dementia and their families. Being a part of the management team that has led the cultural and environmental change in Saint Josephs has been challenging and exciting. She brought a wealth of experience in many exciting and varied roles throughout her career to her role now. Connecting with people (be they people living with dementia, their loved ones, the staff team, our volunteers or our loyal and devoted donors and supporters) is the most important part of what she does every day. Since working with Saint Joseph’s she has completed a dementia design course and spoken at and national and international conferences about dementia care and community engagement and volunteering.

Stephanie Kearns is a Registered General Nurse with over 14 years of experience in dementia care. She completed her Master’s Degree in Dementia in 2017 and is deeply committed to delivering person-centred care across all aspects of dementia support. Over the past five years, throughout her time working in Saint Joseph’s Shankill , Stephanie has been actively involved in a variety of community-based dementia initiatives, with a strong focus on fostering meaningful engagement for people living with dementia and their families.

In partnership with her colleagues at Saint Joseph’s Shankill and the Shankill Bowling Club, Stephanie developed and continues to facilitate the Couples Bowling Programme – a unique initiative that invites individuals living with dementia and a nominated family member or friend to connect through shared activity and the joy of sport. She finds great joy in bringing people together in a safe, inclusive, and welcoming community environment.

End-of-life pain management for people living with dementia is often challenging for healthcare professionals working in nursing homes, as recognizing pain in people who are often nonverbal can be difficult. In Ireland, healthcare assistants working in nursing homes do not have a formal role in end-of-life pain management. However, they are potentially in a unique position to contribute to this, owing to the time they spend with the person with dementia and the intimate knowledge they can have of them. Furthermore, healthcare assistants are overlooked in research on end-of-life pain management for people with dementia, whereby most prior research centers upon the perspectives of nurses and physicians. This research addresses the gap and explores healthcare assistants’ perspectives only.

Brenda is the daughter of parents who both had dementia. Her mother’s death from COVID in 2021 was a turning point for her as she tried to make sense of her death and her dementia, which she had spent over 15 years of her life living with. Brenda signed up for a short course on neurological disorders in UCC in March 2021 and from then went on to complete her Masters in Dementia in October 2024. She works part-time as a nurse in a long-term care home. Her passion is to see improvements in pain management for people living in the advanced stage of dementia.

A full catered lunch will be available

Recognising the diverse experience of people with dementia this Nurse-led service offers a dynamic, person-centred approach that is responsive to the individual needs of the person from the point of baseline dementia screening to end-of life. Pamela will show how this integrated model of dementia care is fundamental to achieving quality outcomes for people living with dementia.

Pamela Dunne ANP, RNID, MSc, works in the Memory Clinic in Avista and the national intellectual disability memory service. She has over 35 years’ experience working with children and adults with an intellectual disability (ID) in a variety of roles ranging from teaching, social and recreational to nursing. In her current role as advanced nurse practitioner in dementia in intellectual disability, she works closely with people with an ID, their families, the multi-disciplinary team. Her research interests particularly focus on psychosocial interventions and dementia.

Danielle has developed a leaflet to assist children and young adults who have family members living with Dementia or Alzheimer’s. The background for the leaflet came from Danielle’s experience of a relative living with Dementia and her own difficulty in understanding the disease and how to connect with them. The aim of the leaflet is to be a resource for parents to have to teach their children in a simple way what dementia is and how they can connect with their relatives. There is a gap in resources in dementia for children with most information targeted toward the individual or caregivers.

Danielle is a 15 year old student, who recently took part in the BT Young Scientist Exhibition with my project designed to develop a resource to assist children and young adults better understand how to engage with an adult family member with Dementia or Alzheimer’s. She won a display award for her efforts.

The presentation will show how the introduction of snack boxes enhanced staff awareness of the nutritional needs and mealtime challenges faced by people with dementia or and delirium in acute care.

Karen Heduvan is an Advanced Nurse Practitioner specialising in the care of older persons, dedicated to improving patient outcomes with compassion and expertise. Originally studying in Scotland, she earned her master’s degree from the University of Galway in 2022. Her life revolves around care—both in her profession and personal life—always striving to make a difference.

Sophie Doyle is a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) in dementia care with a deep commitment to enhancing patient outcomes. She completed her adult and mental health nursing qualifications in London in 2001 and 2013, followed by a BSc in Nursing Management at RCSI in 2009. With extensive experience in dementia care, she is dedicated to improving the lives of patients and their families. Her combined dedication to healthcare and advocacy reflects her compassionate and service-driven approach to life.

The Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015 which came into force in April 2023 is designed to put each person firmly in control of their own lives, and their future. Muriel will present on how the new act represents an attempt to bridge the gap, to support the person to make their own decisions and shape their own future, as well as possible, for as long as possible.

Muriel is a public interest law solicitor. She has a special interest in protecting the rights of vulnerable people to make their own decisions and obtain the services they need to live a full and rewarding life. She has worked extensively with individuals and families with special needs to promote their interests and secure their rights and entitlements vis-à-vis service providers, including Government Departments. Muriel brings her experience of dementia to her practice; she engages with people with dementia, their families and health professionals to navigate the new Assisted Decision-Making Act, its systems, Courts, Reports, the Decision Support Service, etc.

Findings on the implementation and evaluation of the effectiveness of the GREAT-CR intervention in individuals with early-stage dementia in Ireland.

Eram Shaikh is an Assistant Psychologist for ChangeAble Behaviour Solutions. She has completed her MA in Clinical Psychology and is currently starting her degree of MSc in Applied Behaviour Analysis from Trinity College Dublin. She has been involved in various settings such as counseling platforms, hospitals, training teens and adults and working and teaching children with special needs. Seeking fulfillment from working in the care sector and making meaningful changes in people’s lives has always driven her to give her best. With Dr. Michelle Kelly & Dr. Garret McDermott

Florence’s presentation gives a brief outline of human rights under the UNCRPD and ECHR. Florence will address primacy of presumption of capacity for consent and what to do if a person is non capacitious and will outline the required actions to ensure the will and preference of the person

Florence Horsman Hogan: RSCN/RGN, MSc Healthcare Ethics and Law. Fellow of the RCSI. Works in Care of the Older Person for 14 years. She has implemented many quality improvement initiatives in her own organization to enhance human rights and promote primacy of consent for residents. She regularly presents on this at conference level. Local trainer in Human Rights and Restrictive Practices for the past 10. Training nationally on a personal basis for the past two years in Older Person and Disability Services.

We have 2 Exciting Workshops taking place during the Conference this year in our Interactive Room.

IMMA Azure Dementia Inclusive Art Workshop

The Azure Dementia Inclusive Art looking experience offers a guided exploration of a small selection of artworks, to support people living with Dementia and their family, friends or professional carers to engage with art and enjoy a social and fun cultural experience together.

In this workshop, Sundara O’Higgins will be doing a taster session of the Azure Dementia inclusive art programme. It is an interactive session where she uses specialised facilitation techniques to engage with the artworks in the moment, using the senses and what we see, to imagine the story of the artworks, in a relaxed conversational style.

Sundara O Higgins is an art-educator and Curator of the Horizons Art and Health programme at the Irish Museum of Modern Art. She facilitates free inclusive, interactive, slow looking art tours, trainings and workshops, that spark curiosity, creativity, and encourage meaningful discourse. Under Horizons she runs Azure - the Irish Museum of Moderns Art’s Dementia inclusive art programme, with IMMA being one of the founding members of the Azure network which created and introduced the programme to Ireland.


The Workshop will take place on Wednesday 7th and Thursday 8th of May and is suitable for people living with dementia. To sign up or make an enquiry, please email conference@itmd164.sg-host.com

Lizzie’s House of Memories

The workshop will be an interactive workshop which introduces professionals as well as people who are impacted by dementia to the ‘My House of Memories’ app as a resource to take away from the conference. During the session individuals will practice hosting a conversation around culture and memories using the power of objects to stimulate memories of the past and passions of today. The group will work together to create their own memory trees which are illustrative and representative of who they are and their own identities as a creative session to take away with them and use with a range of cultures and demographics. The session will introduce the themes of culture, diversity and the barriers as well as rewards to working with a range of cultural organisations and the approaches to dementia.

Lizzie Ward is Programme Manager for the multi-award-winning House of Memories, a flagship dementia awareness programme for National Museums Liverpool.

House of Memories is making a difference to people living with dementia, their carers, families and communities. More than 60,000 people have benefited from the programme, which continues to expand across the UK and globally in USA and South East Asia.

Lizzie has spent the last decade involved in community programmes across an extensive national and international network of cultural, arts, museum and health partnerships. Her work has been recognised for invaluable social impact and for its creativity and ability for collaborative processes.

The Workshop will take place on Wednesday 7th and Thursday 8th of May and is suitable for those living with Dementia. To sign up or make an enquiry, please email conference@itmd164.sg-host.com