Summary
A report from the Health Innovation Network highlights the positive social value of peer support groups for people with dementia, their carers and volunteers.
It is estimated (based on just three such groups evaluated) that each pound of investment in peer support groups for people with dementia could generate a social value return ranging from £1.17 to £5.18. The main benefits of attending peer support groups are:
- Reduced isolation and loneliness: meeting other people in a similar situation.
- Increased stimulation: including cognitive stimulation.
- Increased wellbeing for carers: reduction in stress and carer burden.
Reference
Peer support for people with dementia: a social return on investment (SROI) study. London: Health Innovation Network, September 3rd 2015.
