Episode 13: Enhancing Eye Care for People with Dementia: Insights and Solutions with Marianne Coleman

As we observe World Alzheimer's Month, focusing on dementia awareness and reducing stigma, we invited Marianne Coleman, a renowned orthoptist and researcher, to explore the critical intersection of dementia and visual function. Marianne shares strategies to help eye care professionals better support patients with dementia, from understanding their challenges to applying practical, dementia-friendly solutions. This episode is a must-listen for eye care professionals committed to providing inclusive care for the aging population.

A qualified orthoptist from the University of Liverpool and a research fellow at the National Centre for Healthy Aging (NCHA), Marianne has spent years exploring the complex relationship between dementia and visual function. Her research, conducted at the University of Melbourne and the Australian College of Optometry, among others, has provided vital insights into the unique challenges faced by dementia patients in accessing eye care. 

Key Topics with Timestamps: 

2:46 - Challenges faced by people with dementia in eye care 

4:49 - The importance of binocular vision in dementia care 

8:18 - Key insights on depth perception and dementia 

12:05 - Practical solution for dementia-friendly practices 

15:56 - Identifying and addressing dementia in patients 

20:30 - Resources to encourage patients to disclose dementia diagnosis 

22:55 - Adapting eye exam for dementia patients 

24:46 - Simple strategies to ensure better dementia patient experience 

28:26 - Impact of different practice ecosystems on dementia patients 

31:23 - Optometrist training and support for dementia care 

33:52 - Comprehensive dementia-friendly training 

38:57 - Success stories and practice implementation 

43:18 - Promoting dementia-friendly services 

45:13 - Stepping up on dementia-friendly eye care 

Mentioned Resources: 

Dementia Australia - Eye Health and Dementia page 

Dementia-Friendly Eyecare Training Course for Optometrists 

Information Booklet About Eye Tests for People Living with Dementia and Carers 

Dementia-Friendly Dispensing Webinar 

Dementia Training Australia 

Optometry Australia's Institute of Excellence: Dementia-Friendly Eyecare 

Connect with Marianne Coleman: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianne-coleman-13000349/ 

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Learn More About Us: 

Website: https://www.thefocusedview.com.au/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-focused-view 

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