Sharon Savage
Goal-oriented cognitive rehabilitation in early-stage dementia: a translation for primary progressive aphasia (GREAT for PPA)
Award
Dementia Australia Research Foundation Translation Grant in Dementia Care
Status
In progress
Start Date
1 June 2026
About the project
What is the focus of the research?
Adapting an existing, evidence-based dementia rehabilitation program so that it is appropriate for people living with language-led dementias, known as primary progressive aphasia.
Why is this important?
People with primary progressive aphasia (PPA) experience progressive difficulties with understanding and using language, which impacts independence, relationships and quality of life. Due to a lack of language-based rehabilitation programs that are designed for people with language impairments, many people with PPA receive little or no rehabilitation support. Dr Savage aims to create more equitable access to care by adapting GREAT – a program that is successfully helping people living with Alzheimer’s disease. Working with clinicians, researchers and people with lived experience, her team will redesign the program’s materials and test whether the adapted version can be delivered effectively in the homes of people living with PPA. If successful, this program could help people living with primary progressive aphasia live independently, with a better quality of life, for longer.
What will it mean for people living with PPA?
- Access to a rehabilitation program adapted to their communication needs.
- Better support to maintain everyday skills, confidence and independence.
- Greater inclusion for people with language-led dementias.
- Practical, home-based support that involves families and carers.
Where are they now?
Dr Savage is a clinical neuropsychologist and senior lecturer in the discipline of psychological sciences at The University of Newcastle. She is involved in research and teaching students about cognitive assessment, different types of dementia and dementia risk reduction.
