What's Happening?
Joan Lyon, a 75-year-old grandmother diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2023, is actively contributing to dementia education at Stirling University. Despite her condition, Joan delivers lectures to first-year nursing and paramedic students, sharing her personal
experiences with dementia. Her involvement is part of the university's Being Dementia Smart module, which is the first in the UK to incorporate dementia design into undergraduate nursing and paramedic education. Joan's lectures aim to humanize the condition, emphasizing the importance of treating dementia patients with dignity and respect. Her efforts have been well-received by students, who find her insights both inspiring and educational. Joan also participates in research and testing of dementia-friendly products at the university's Dementia Services Development Centre.
Why It's Important?
Joan Lyon's initiative at Stirling University highlights the critical need for personalized education in healthcare, particularly concerning dementia. By sharing her lived experience, Joan provides students with a unique perspective that goes beyond traditional clinical training. This approach not only enhances the students' understanding of dementia but also prepares them to offer more compassionate care. As dementia affects a significant portion of the population, such educational programs are essential in equipping future healthcare professionals with the skills needed to address the challenges associated with the condition. Joan's work underscores the value of integrating real-world experiences into academic curricula, potentially influencing other institutions to adopt similar models.
What's Next?
Joan Lyon plans to continue her lectures at Stirling University as long as her health permits. Her ongoing involvement is expected to inspire other universities to incorporate similar educational modules, potentially leading to a broader adoption of person-centered dementia education across the UK. The success of Stirling's program may encourage further collaboration between educational institutions and individuals with lived experiences, fostering a more empathetic and informed approach to healthcare education. Additionally, Joan's contributions could influence policy changes, advocating for mandatory dementia education in healthcare training programs nationwide.
