Alzheimer Europe is pleased to introduce its latest publication: the “Guidelines on Inclusive Travel and Meetings for People with Dementia”.
People with dementia are increasingly being invited to participate in meetings in various settings, such as in the context of Public Involvement for research projects, national policy working groups and other advocacy activities. It is imperative to include people with dementia in such activities to recognise the value of their perspectives and life experiences and guarantee that they can have a say in the development of research, policy and services. Alzheimer Europe’s new guidelines aim to ensure that meetings and travel arrangements are organised with accessibility and the specific needs of people with dementia in mind, promoting their well-being throughout.
The guide builds on previous work carried out with the European Working Group of People with Dementia (EWGPWD) in 2020 on inclusive meetings and travel. The topic was then revisited in 2023 in several consultations with the EWGPWD and with the European Dementia Carers Working Group (EDCWG).
Drawing from both groups’ feedback and Alzheimer Europe's extensive experience in the field, the guidelines offer some practical guidance for anyone who is involved in planning meetings and discussions with people with dementia. Eight key areas are covered. These include: the practicalities of travel arrangements, the role of a supporter in meetings, financial aspects of travelling, accessible information, promoting the well-being of participants during a meeting and issues specific to online meetings. The final part of the guide includes tips for people with dementia and carers/supporters from some members of the EWGPWD and the EDCWG.
We encourage our network to use and share these guidelines with any other individual or organisation involved in organising meetings that include people with dementia.
The publication can be downloaded, via our website: https://www.alzheimer-europe.org/resources/publications/guidelines-inclusive-travel-and-meetings-people-dementia
