Dr Clare Ellis-Smith
Name:
Dr Clare Ellis-Smith
Job title:
Senior Lecturer in Palliative Care
Place of work / study:
King’s College London
Area of Research:
My main research focus is access to palliative care [1] for people with dementia. In particular, my research focuses on how person-centred outcome measures may improve care provision and outcomes for people with dementia and family carers.
How is your work funded:
My research has been funded through grants from multiple funders over the years, mostly NIHR and ESRC.
Tell us a little about yourself:
I am an occupational therapist with a background in older adult mental health and dementia care, and am deeply motivated to improve care provision for people with dementia. In particular, my focus is on systematic use of person-centred outcome measures to ensure timely detection and treatment of distressing symptoms and concerns experienced by those living with dementia and their family carers.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself:
If I am not working, there is a good chance that I am out running. Long distances, hills and sore legs is my idea of fun!
Why did you choose to work in dementia?
I had a student placement working with people with dementia, which really exposed me to critical role that allied health professionals can play in dementia care, and how occupational therapy could benefit people with dementia.
What single piece of advise would you give to an early career researcher?
Follow your passions and interests, and enjoy your work.
What book are you reading right now? Would you recommend it?
The island of missing trees [2] by Elif Shafak
Favourite film of all time?
I can’t choose one, it depends on my mood.
Favourite ways to unplug and unwind?
Running, definitely running. Also, listening to music and reading.
What’s the best decision you ever made?
Studying occupational therapy. It has provided me with so much opportunity for a rich and fulfilling career.
What’s your favourite vacation spot?
Cape Town, I am a little biased as that’s where I am from, but its hard to beat for magnificent scenery, great food and outdoor activities like mountain runs and sea swimming.
Do you collect anything?
Not really.