Catherine Talbot

Abstract

Social media as a source of post-diagnostic support for people living with early-stage dementia: Current research and future directions

A diagnosis of dementia can have a powerful impact on a person, shaping their sense of identity, self-worth, and self-esteem. The potential role of technology in supporting the psychosocial needs of people with dementia is widely acknowledged and there is greater need to understand the ways that digital technologies may enhance the lives of people with dementia, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. This talk will examine the experiences of people with early-stage dementia who use social media, including the perceived benefits and associated challenges. Thematic analyses of qualitative interviews and online data will be presented, highlighting that social media usage can engender a sense of identity at a time of perceived loss, combat isolation, provide access to support, facilitate therapeutic self-expression, and create opportunities for cognitive stimulation and group membership. However, social media can also be a hostile space for people with early-stage dementia who do not present in a stereotypical manner. People with dementia have also reported technical difficulties because of their symptoms, and initial findings from a survey of unpaid carers suggest there are cybersecurity concerns. While social media appears to be filling an important gap in current support provision, future research should focus on developing co- produced evidence-based training and resources that respond to the needs of people with dementia and other stakeholders implicated in their social media usage. This may promote the digital engagement, literacy, and inclusion of people with dementia, as well as combatting some of the challenges associated with the diagnosis.

About Catherine

Dr Catherine Talbot is a Senior Lecturer in Psychology at Bournemouth University. She conducts research in cyberpsychology, specialising in social media and its intersection with health and wellbeing. Her current work focuses on the digital experiences of people living with dementia. She is particularly interested in how technologies can be harnessed to promote the wellbeing, identity, and social inclusion of people with dementia. Catherine sits on the BPS research board as the early career representative and is the communications lead for the BPS Cyberpsychology section.