Victoria Tischler, University of Exeter

Title: Artists are taking over the care home: the confessions of a transdisciplinary scholar.

Abstract: Dementia is one of the most pressing international public health issues with 50 million people living with the condition worldwide, a number predicted to grow to over 150 million in 2050 (WHO, 2019). There is no cure for dementia and an urgent need to improve the care of those living with the condition. This talk presents some of the opportunities, pitfalls and rewards when embracing transdisciplinarity, working across and beyond disciplinary boundaries. I will illustrate with examples from my research focusing on creative and multi-sensory approaches designed to improve health and quality of life for those with dementia. The use of art and design to enhance health and social care environments and as a means of public engagement are also considered.