What impact can academic research have on the experience of dementia diagnosis? Professor Sarah Smith draws on her career as a dementia researcher and cognitive psychologist to understand the experience of dementia diagnosis and post diagnostic support. She examines the value of research for improving access to, and experience of,  services to better serve those experiencing cognitive impairments.

Professor Sarah Jane Smith is a cognitive psychologist who conducts research in the field of applied dementia care. Her research is situated in two domains; Memory assessment, diagnosis and post diagnostic support and Dementia Education and Training,  although synergies and overlaps exist between these areas. Her research concerning memory assessment has explored how cognitive impairments characterise different types of dementia, as well as how memory assessment services are equipped to meet the needs of people experiencing cognitive impairment. Her work has led to recommendations for improving access to and experience of services.

This lecture is part of Leeds Beckett university's inaugural professional lecture series.