PhD student Isabella Gooday

Isabella's project is looking at:

The experiences of marginalised communities accessing Memory Assessment Services (MAS)

Research shows that some marginalised communities are more likely to develop MCI but are less likely to receive a timely cognitive assessment or culturally appropriate care.

Tell us about your research

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) affects memory and thinking more than would be expected for a person’s age. However, it does not as significant an impact on daily life as dementia. Around two in ten people aged 65 and over in the UK are estimated to live with MCI, although this number could be higher as there are currently no formal NICE guidelines for diagnosis and treatment.

Some people with MCI will go on to develop dementia – about one in seven each year, and half within five years. Research also shows that some marginalised communities are more likely to develop MCI (with some groups being more at risk than others) but are less likely to receive a timely cognitive assessment or culturally appropriate care. 

My research aims to explore these inequalities. I will investigate the experiences of these communities accessing Memory Assessment Services (MAS), looking at:

• What kinds of memory concerns people bring to these services
• Their experiences of accessing care and receiving an MCI diagnosis
• Whether they are receiving appropriate follow-up support
• Who is best placed to provide ongoing care when support is lacking.

How are you hoping to make a difference through your research? 

Having the opportunity to develop my skills as a researcher while creating work with meaningful, real-world impact is something I truly value.

The goal is to understand where the barriers lie and to identify practical ways to improve diagnosis, follow-up care and cultural inclusivity within memory services. Ultimately, this research aims to ensure that everyone, regardless of background, can access timely, effective and culturally sensitive care for MCI and dementia.

What excites you most about your PhD? 

I’m most excited about working with people who have lived experience of MCI or dementia. Collaborating with patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE) members, means the research will be shaped by the people it’s designed to benefit, directly reflecting what matters most to those affected.

Seeing my grandma’s experience and the difficulties she faced inspired me to go into dementia research. My grandma was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease dementia in the latter years of her life. The most upsetting part was how dementia affected her confidence and wellbeing – she lost much of her independence and joy. 

The diagnosis process was long and challenging, with barriers that delayed her receiving the right care. Eventually, she was supported by a wonderful nursing home that provided care tailored to her needs.

I want to make a difference for people living with dementia and MCI so that future care is easier to access, more timely and more inclusive. 

How does it feel to be part of the I-CARE Doctoral Training Centre? 

It feels amazing to be part of a team so passionate about improving the lives of people affected by dementia and MCI. Being part of the Alzheimer’s Society Doctoral Training Centre for Integrated Care gives me the chance to learn from other researchers who share the same purpose – making care more equitable and effective.

I feel incredibly grateful to contribute to research in an area that has personally impacted my own family and many others.