How is Joan Lyon helping nursing students at Stirling University?

Joan Lyon, who has Alzheimer's, delivers talks to first-year nursing and paramedic students at Stirling University about her daily life with the condition.

What is the "Being Dementia Smart" module at Stirling University?

It's the first UK undergraduate module for nurses and paramedics that includes dementia design, with Joan Lyon's input being integral to its success.

What impact does Joan Lyon's experience have on dementia care education?

Her lived experience provides invaluable insights, emphasizing the importance of dignity and respect, and changing student perceptions of dementia.

Home / Health / Grandmother with Dementia Inspires Future Nurses

Grandmother with Dementia Inspires Future Nurses

3 Jan

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Summary

A grandmother diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2023 now educates university students.
She volunteers at Stirling University's Dementia Services Development Centre.
Her lived experience provides crucial insights for healthcare professionals.

Grandmother with Dementia Inspires Future Nurses

A 75-year-old grandmother diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2023 is making a significant impact on the next generation of healthcare professionals. Joan Lyon, a retired priest, now regularly shares her personal experiences with dementia students at Stirling University's Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC).

Her involvement is crucial to the university's "Being Dementia Smart" module, the first of its kind in the UK for undergraduate nursing and paramedic students. Joan's talks focus on her daily life, navigating technology, and the essential need for treating individuals with dementia respectfully.

Beyond her talks, Joan volunteers her time at the DSDC, contributing to research on dementia-friendly design and testing new products. Her advocacy aims to spread awareness and ensure that individuals with dementia are seen as people, not just a diagnosis, a sentiment echoed by students who find her sessions inspiring and perspective-shifting.