Supporting the Training of Our Future Doctors

Shared by a Good Company Member.

Time for Dementia is an innovative educational programme from the Alzheimer’s Society that helps future healthcare professionals better understand and empathise with people living with dementia and their families.

Undergraduate students are paired with a family affected by dementia for two years, visiting them in their homes several times to gain real insight into daily life. Through these visits, students learn about the emotional, practical and social realities of living with dementia, developing the understanding and sensitivity that will shape the way they care for others in the future.

The programme has transformed dementia education and is now part of medical, nursing and allied health courses at universities across the UK. Thousands of students and families have already taken part, with evidence showing lasting improvements in knowledge, confidence and compassion among those who complete it.

We have been involved in Time for Dementia for several years. Our main reason for joining was to give something back to the NHS while we still could. What we found, though, was that it became a real pleasure to welcome these bright young students into our home, to hear about their training and to share honestly what it is like to live as a family with dementia.

Throughout the year there are opportunities to attend online webinars, and each summer participating families are invited to a celebration event at the university. It is a chance to meet other families, hear about the latest research, and see first-hand how much the students have learnt.

Time for Dementia is always looking for new families to take part. We can thoroughly recommend it. It feels good to know that our experiences are helping to train a new generation of doctors, nurses and healthcare professionals, and that they will go on to support others with greater empathy and understanding.

To find out more or get involved: 📩 timefordementia@alzheimers.org.uk