A new study is underway to explore the role of food in helping people with dementia.

The University of Worcester's Association for Dementia Studies is conducting the research to understand how food and food-related activities impact those attending community groups.

The Food, Glorious Food project will receive feedback from people who attend groups such as Meeting Centres, Dementia Cafés, and clubs for older people of South Asian and Black and Caribbean heritage.

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The research, funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), aims to shed light on the social and psychological benefits of food for people with dementia living in the community.

Project manager Thomas Morton said: "There’s lots of research on how to help people to eat well and healthily in institutions like care homes and hospitals – but we’re interested in the psychological and social benefits of food for people with dementia living in the community, like how it might improve their well-being and help them feel more connected to others.

“This project is specifically focused on the use of food in community groups: whether that’s eating and drinking, bringing food to share or having snacks together, or activities like cooking, baking, shopping, and even just discussing food.

“Food, in these settings, can be amazing. It can encourage people who may be at risk of being isolated to come along and socialise. It can overcome stigma and makes meeting up more enjoyable."

He added: "Many people living with dementia find their appetite is affected and may find eating and drinking more challenging than it used to be.

"Groups also need the staff and resources to offer food, and food choices can be very personal – if you don’t get it right, it can put people off coming rather than encouraging them."

The study aims to provide guidance to community support groups on effectively integrating food into their activities.

The 18-month study will be led by the Worcester project team in collaboration with colleagues from Cardiff University, University of Wolverhampton, University of Oxford, and the 3 Nations Dementia Working Group.