What is ACcORD?
The Australian Community Of practice in Research in Dementia (ACcORD) conducts research that aims to improve the wellbeing and health outcomes of people with dementia and people who support and care for them. This research is being conducted by leading researchers, health care providers, including GPs, geriatricians and aged care nurses, and consumers. This research is funded by one of six Dementia Research Team Grants from the National Health and Medical Research Council.
Why are we developing ‘ACcORD Health Professional Community of Practice’?
A Community of Practice is a group of people with a common goal to improve a certain area. This is done through the sharing of ideas and experiences. The input of people with dementia and their caregivers, and healthcare providers, is vital to our research. We are developing a Community of Practice to gain a better understanding of the needs of people living with dementia and those who support and care for them, as well as a Health Professional Community of Practice to better understand the needs and challenges of healthcare providers who provide care to people with dementia.
By joining our Health Professional Community of Practice, you will be contributing to cutting edge dementia research. You will have an opportunity to have your say about dementia care and associated issues. You can help us to better understand what matters to people living with dementia and their families, friends and caregivers, and what some of the challenges are to providing the best care, so that our studies are the best they can be, and lead to improved outcomes.
What will I be asked to do?
From time to time, people who have joined will be invited to give their views about dementia treatment, services or care. They may also be invited to participate in and/or give feedback on new research studies. Activities could include: reading through a new survey, participating in a telephone interview, giving your opinion and ideas about recruitment locations and strategies, or helping us get in touch with people with dementia and their carers. Upon joining we will ask what type of activities you might be interested in and contact you accordingly.
How often will I be contacted?
We anticipate we will contact health professionals 3-4 times per year with opportunities to contribute. However, you can opt in or out of helping on different occasions and can contribute as much or as little as you would like. If your circumstances change you can update this by contacting us (details below).
What benefits are there of joining the ACcORD Community of Practice?
By joining, you may also have the opportunity to apply for “ACcORD Affiliate” status, acknowledgement on research outputs where appropriate, and/ or certificate of contribution which may be used to apply for professional development points if applicable. There are no financial costs involved in being a member of the Community of Practice.
What if my circumstances change?
We completely understand that your circumstances may change. You are under no obligation to continue contributing to ACcORD. You can change your mind and withdraw at any time. Contact us via details below if you would like to withdraw.