Profile – Mason McLeod, University of the Highlands and Islands

Mason McLeod

Name:

Mason McLeod

Job title:

PhD Health Candidate

Place of work / study:

Centre for Rural Health Sciences, The University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI)

Area of Research:

My research explores how engagement with organised outdoor activities influences perceptions of wellbeing among community-dwelling people living with dementia in the Scottish Highlands. Using a community-engaged participatory action research approach, people living with dementia and their care partners are involved as co-researchers throughout the project. Together, they help shape the research design, methods, and interpretation of findings. By examining the relationships between people, outdoor places, nature, and wellbeing, this study aims to generate practical knowledge that can inform the development of inclusive, strengths-based community initiatives that support living well with dementia.

How is your work funded:

This PhD doctoral research project is made possible thanks to funding through the University of Highlands and Islands (UHI) Studentship

Tell us a little about yourself:

My name is Mason McLeod and I moved from Canada to the Highlands of Scotland to pursue my PhD. My research is situated within the field of Green Health and buildings upon previous research undertaken in Canada. Green health is an umbrella term that covers a wide range of “green” health initiatives, policies, practices and programs aimed at improving the quality of life, physical, social and mental health and wellbeing of the population through protection of and connecting with nature and natural environments.

I am passionate about understanding how people living with dementia can continue to live meaningful, connected, and fulfilling lives within their communities. My research explores how participation in organised outdoor and nature-based activities shapes perceptions of wellbeing among community-dwelling people living with dementia in the Scottish Highlands. Through a community-engaged Participatory Action Research and art based approach I actively involve people living with dementia and their care partners as co-researchers ensuring their voices and experiences remain central to the research process

Tell us a fun fact about yourself:

I use to play Lacrosse

Why did you choose to work in dementia?

My grandfather had vascular dementia

What single piece of advice would you give to an early career researcher?

I am an early career researcher, good luck 🙂

Favourite ways to unplug and unwind?

Going to the gym or a walk outside

Do you collect anything?

Coins

Can we find you on social media?

Find Mason on LinkedIn