Partners in progress: Advancing dementia research through collaboration.

Abstract

The lived experience of dementia, the views of the caregiver, and the pursuit of scientific understanding by researchers need to converge for holistic and collaborative action to improve dementia research. However, there often exist silos and division between these groups, which limits relevance and innovation. This paper aims to bridge this divide by offering a tripartite exploration of dementia research through three distinct, yet interconnected, lenses of a person living with the disease, their dedicated carer, and a researcher actively engaged in dementia research. This collaborative endeavour highlights the need to move beyond the traditional (and outdated) dichotomy of "subject and expert". By weaving together personal perspectives and insights in a multi-voiced approach, we highlight the opportunities and potential that can emerge from working in partnership and using a relational approach.