Kerryn Pike

This research aims to improve access to cognitive interventions for people at risk of developing dementia in regional areas of Australia, addressing significant disparities in service availability. By adapting an existing clinician training package for regional memory clinics, the study will equip neuropsychologists with the skills and resources needed to deliver evidence-based interventions, such as memory strategies and goal-oriented programs. The project will evaluate the impact of these interventions on people with mild cognitive impairment and subjective cognitive decline, focusing on improving their confidence, mood, cognitive abilities, and overall quality of life. The research also examines the barriers and enablers to implementing these services in regional areas, considering factors like large catchment areas, transportation challenges, and limited healthcare resources. 

The findings aim to support regional clinicians in overcoming these obstacles, ensuring more equitable dementia prevention services across Australia. Through collaboration with regional memory clinics and community stakeholders, this study has the potential to transform care delivery and close the evidence-to-practice gap in dementia prevention.

Dr Pike is an Associate Professor in the School of Applied Psychology and Centre for Mental Health at Griffith University, Gold Coast, where she leads the Maximising and Characterising Cognition in Everyday Life (MaxCCEL) research group. She also chairs the Australian Dementia Network (ADNeT) Cognitive Interventions Working Group, and the International Neuropsychological Society (INS) Neuropsychological Interventions Special Interest Group.