Translating dementia research into practice

Abstract

There is a gap between the knowledge obtained in dementia research and the practical use of it. This review examines the concept of knowledge translation (KT) and the process of translating research into practice in the field of dementia. KT in dementia practice involves key players including researchers, educators, clinicians, policy-makers, the general public and consumers who act within a multidimensional network, disseminating findings widely to effect changes in community awareness, clinical practice and health policy. Challenges include the volume of dementia research; difficulties in determining who is responsible for KT; the problems of premature KT; the lack of resources to perform KT; the paucity of research about effective KT strategies; and the characteristics of the dementia care workforce. Key features of effective KT include a simple compelling message; use of interpersonal contact and roles; a practical framework with an emphasis on "know-how"; and the provision of resources and support. More effective dementia KT will require a commitment by key players to engage in the process, a better understanding of effective KT strategies, adequate resources, and judicious selection of appropriate evidence-based information.

An approach to facilitate healthcare professionals' readiness to support technology use in everyday life for persons with dementia

“…The participants discussed important matters and asked questions among themselves and of the researchers/group leaders during the one-day course and the focus group interviews. Also, the knowledge and tools were elaborated and discussed in detail in the one-day course as well as during the focus group interviews, which gave the participants an opportunity to be actively involved in how to implement the knowledge and how the tools could be used by them (21). However, despite the new knowledge and their positive attitude, several barriers could also affect the healthcare professionals' readiness and implementation of it (22).…”

“…The process of knowledge translation occurs in a complex interaction among researchers and users (20). To enhance knowledge translation, the information needs to be appropriately tailored and simplified to fit the users (20,21). As well, it is important to take into consideration that translating knowledge into practice it is not enough for health care professionals to gain new knowledge or information; a change in attitudes and behaviour is also needed.…”

Improving the Utilization of Research Knowledge in Agri-food Public Health: A Mixed-Method Review of Knowledge Translation and Transfer

“…Direct contact and interactions between researchers and end-users is one of the most important factors facilitating the use of research in decision-making (Innvaer et al, 2002;Draper et al, 2009).…”

“…Another important component of effective KTT is to ensure a supportive organizational culture and sufficient capacity for researchers and end-users to engage in KTT activities (Mitton et al, 2007;Rundall et al, 2007;Draper et al, 2009;Head, 2010;Pentland et al, 2011). For example, the academic promotion and reward process needs to appropriately recognize researcher KTT efforts (Hanney et al, 2003;Best et al, 2008).…”

“…For example, the academic promotion and reward process needs to appropriately recognize researcher KTT efforts (Hanney et al, 2003;Best et al, 2008). In addition, endusers must have the appropriate skills and training to identify, critically evaluate, and apply research for decision-making (Rundall et al, 2007;Draper et al, 2009). …”