SERVED: Exploring potential barriers and enablers to veterans seeking support for dementia

The SERVED research initiative (Supporting Evidence-based Research for Veterans Experiencing Dementia), led by Bournemouth University, explores the lived experiences of veterans living with dementia. Military service can increase exposure to risk factors for dementia (including traumatic brain injury, PTSD, depression, hearing loss) and veterans living with dementia face distinct challenges shaped by military culture, stigma, and potential barriers to appropriate care. Despite this, little research has explored these lived experiences within a UK context. Previous work conducted within the SERVED initiative highlighted distinct challenges in accessing veterans with dementia, leading to the current body of work exploring potential barriers and enablers to veterans accessing support for memory-related concerns.

The aim of this project is to explore potential perceived barriers and enablers to veterans accessing support for dementia or memory-related concerns. Working together with veterans and those in the military, we also aim to co-create a short animation to help raise awareness.

Mixed-methods approach using a short survey (which can be accessed here: www.bournemouth.ac.uk/served-survey) and also workshops/focus groups for qualitative analysis, open to all veterans. For more information on this work, please visit: www.bournemouth.ac.uk/served

What are the perceived potential barriers and enablers to veterans seeking support for dementia or memory-related concerns?

All UK Armed Forces veterans who have previously served in the military. There is no expectation or requirement to have personal experience with memory concerns or dementia.