“Seen and heard”: The role of sound and moving image to connect people with dementia within, outwards and across generations
Parallel 5
18 November, 2026 2:10 – 3:20 pmMusic, Culture and Media in Dementia Care
Ellie Robinson-Carter
Programme Director: MSc Dementia / Founding Artistic Director
University of Hull / The Photobook Project
Ronald Amanze
Lived Expert / Poet
Summary
People living with dementia frequently experience exclusion and a lack of opportunities to have their voices heard, which can negatively affect wellbeing, identity, and social connection. This project, funded by the EMPOWER Dementia Network+ Small Research Fund, explores the role of radio and participatory filmmaking as creative tools for enhancing wellbeing and fostering intergenerational connection among people living with dementia. Building on the pioneering work of Deepness Dementia Media, a series of co-creative workshops was conducted with people living with dementia and young people in Brent (London) resulting in the production of films, audio recordings, and photobooks that captured personal stories, memories, and experiences.
The research examines how participatory media can support self-expression, strengthen connections to culture, place, and community, and challenge common assumptions about dementia. Findings demonstrate that creative media practices provide meaningful opportunities for people with dementia to share their experiences, maintain a sense of identity, and engage with younger generations in mutually beneficial ways. The project also highlights the value of co-produced research and creative outputs in fostering purpose, pride, and social inclusion among individuals.
Our talk will showcase the films, photobooks, photographs, and audio pieces, as well as the key findings from the focus groups. These demonstrate the transformative potential of accessible media platforms for people living with dementia. By presenting a new model of intergenerational and culturally inclusive creative practice, this project contributes to emerging approaches that promote wellbeing, social connection, and more positive public understandings of dementia.
This project has been created and delivered by Ronald Amanze, RVF Academy, Biggerhouse Film, The Photobook Project and University of Hull