First Welsh dementia research conference showcases innovative approaches to care

A research-led conference has connected dementia experts from across the UK and beyond in a Wales first.

The inaugural Dementia Care Research Conference, facilitated by NHS Wales Performance and Improvement, brought together researchers, practitioners, carers, and those with lived experience to explore the future of dementia care.

The online event provided a space for collaboration and knowledge exchange through keynote presentations, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities.

Themes from the day included the urgent need to make dementia research more inclusive, particularly for under-represented and marginalised communities.

Presentations, which are available via the Virtual Dementia Care Research Conference webpage until December, explored community-led prevention strategies, including working with communities to develop culturally sensitive approaches to engagement, inclusive recruitment practices, and approaches to ensure that research reflects the diversity of those affected by dementia.

From assistive technologies and diagnostic tools to service redesigns and digital platforms, the conference showcased innovations supporting people living with dementia, demonstrating how technology and research can work hand-in-hand to enhance quality of life and care delivery.

The event also highlighted the importance of collaboration across academia, health and social care, the third sector, and community organisations. Case studies presented throughout the day illustrated how cross-sector partnerships are driving impactful research and meaningful change.

Findings from the Alzheimer’s Society’s Lived Experiences of Dementia – Survey Report 2025 were shared, revealing that:

• 73% of people with dementia feel anxious or worried about their symptoms.
• 42% report feelings of shame or stigma.
• Fewer than two in five believe dementia care is a government priority.
• 70% of unpaid carers experience negative effects on their health, wellbeing, or social lives.

Michaela Morris, National Mental Health Services Improvement Manager and Dementia Lead, said: “The conference highlighted that dementia is not only a clinical issue but a profound social challenge affecting nearly one million people in the UK. Behind each statistic lies a personal story - a person, a family, and often an unpaid carer navigating complex emotional and practical realities.

“Speakers reaffirmed the importance of the Dementia Pathway of Standards as a framework for improving care through responsive, accessible, and collaborative approaches. Achieving lasting change will require collective action - promoting early diagnosis, reducing stigma, supporting unpaid carers, and embedding person-centred care at every level.

“I’d like to offer my sincere thanks to all speakers, contributors, and attendees who made the conference a success. Together, we are shaping a more compassionate, inclusive, and innovative future for dementia care.”

All conference sessions are available to view for a limited period via the vFairs platform, here.

Find out more about the work of the national dementia programme, here.