Diana Matovic

Older adults with mild cognitive impairment and early dementia often experience social isolation. Their supporters commonly experience social isolation too. Social isolation often leads to feelings of depression, anxiety, loneliness, poor wellbeing, and the development of dementia. Research shows that frequent and varied social activities both reduce the risk of developing dementia and slow the rate of cognitive decline in people with mild cognitive impairment. Unfortunately, there is limited understanding of ways to address social isolation in these populations. 

Dr Matovic will address this critical knowledge gap by adapting an already-existing, evidence-based intervention that increases varied social participation. Dr Matovic has established a survey and focus group study, which will identify the barriers and facilitators of social participation in these populations. The team plans to: 1) use this information to adapt an intervention in focus groups with people with cognitive impairment and supporters; and 2) pilot test the intervention over three months to evaluate whether it increases social participation and wellbeing. 

The pilot testing will inform a future randomised controlled trial of the intervention. Increasing social participation will likely lead to immediate benefits of reduced distress and increased wellbeing. It may also reduce the risk of developing dementia or slow its progression.

Dr Diana Matovic is a postdoctoral researcher at Macquarie University and a member of the Macquarie University Lifespan Health and Wellbeing Research Centre.