How social connection can benefit people living with a dementia
We all know the power of a good conversation. It can shift our mood, lift our spirits and give us a fresh perspective. It can make us feel seen, valued and supported.
Research continues to demonstrate the effects of social connection on our mental and physical health. The World Health
Organization estimates that loneliness alone may be responsible for 871,000 deaths per year worldwide, increasing the likelihood of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and cognitive decline.
Social connection becomes even more important for people living with a dementia, supporting their sense of identity and self-worth, reducing anxiety and stimulating cognitive function.
This is why we developed our Connected Lives training programme, a series of training events and resources exploring the positive impacts of social connection for people living with dementia, and how practitioners and volunteers working directly with the community can deliver inclusive services that build or sustain meaningful connection.
Connected Lives includes a one-day course, taking place in communities throughout Scotland, blends research, case studies and practical advice with lots of opportunities for discussion and peer learning. The course has been externally reviewed by the Dementia Service Development Centre at the University of Stirling and is CPD certificated.
The course creates space for attendees to:
- Deepen their understanding of dementia and the importance of social connection for people living with the condition.
- Learn how to deliver inclusive events and activities.
- Get tips for supporting volunteers to build and sustain relationships with people living with a dementia.
- Identify next steps for offering a dementia-resilient service for their community.
Our first events have had a positive reaction, with one attendee at our Dumfries event saying:
“I really enjoyed it and found it both valuable and informative. It was a great chance to learn from others in the sector and make new connections, and I came away with plenty of ideas and insights.”
Attendees have shared the learning that will influence their practice, with one attending our Edinburgh event saying:
“[I learnt] how to validate someone with a dementia when they are frustrated or want to do something that isn’t possible or safe. Give people time and appreciate company.”
Befriending Networks, like the Community Link Workers Network, is rooted in the importance of peer-to-peer support and insight based on lived experience. By building stronger local networks of people equipped with the skills and confidence to support people living with a dementia, we hope to contribute to a Scotland where meaningful connection and a sense of belonging are possible for everyone.
We will appear at the Scottish Community Link Worker Network Conference on Tuesday 22 September. Come to the exhibitor space to chat about social connection, befriending and secure your spot at a free Connected Lives training session near you! Those who visit us on the day will be able to sign up to receive a copy of our e:book, Good Practice Guidelines, Running a Service for People Living with a Dementia, and receive early notification of our Connected Lives e-learning which will launch in 2027.
Connected Lives is funded by the Scottish Government’s Dementia Resilient Communities Fund and supports the delivery of the national strategy Dementia in Scotland: Everyone’s Story.
Book a place at an upcoming training location: Connected Lives training programme.
