Dublin City University Age-Friendly University took part in the International Dementia Conference 2026, where AFU researcher Dr Waqar Ahmed delivered a presentation entitled “Promoting Dementia-Friendly Cultural Participation in Ireland”. The paper formed part of the Erasmus+ MEMORABLE project.
The Annual International Dementia Conference 2026 was organised by Engaging Dementia under the theme Let’s Keep Connecting: Personally, Professionally and Purposefully. The event brought together people living with dementia, family carers, practitioners, researchers and service providers for expert talks, panel discussions, and professional exchange.
The presentation highlighted findings from the Erasmus+ MEMORABLE cooperation partnership, examining how creative and cultural activities can support the inclusion and well-being of people living with dementia. The study responded to an increasing policy interest in dementia-inclusive cultural spaces.
The findings indicated that cultural programmes—such as museum visits, music, dance, choirs, and poetry—significantly support emotional well-being, social connection, identity, and relationships between participants and carers. However, the research also identified key ongoing challenges, including physical and cognitive accessibility, stigma, short-term funding structures, and a critical need for expanded cross-sector collaboration and training.
To address these barriers, MEMORABLE partners are currently drafting curriculum modules for the project’s e-learning platform. This initiative aims to equip cultural institutions across Europe with the practical knowledge and skills required to strengthen inclusive participation.
