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Fiona Hartley
Name:
Fiona Hartley
Job title:
Retired physiotherapist
Place of work / study:
Neuroprogressive and Dementia Network
Area of Research:
I am a Patient and Public Involevement and PiR member of Scottish Neuroprogressive and Dementia Network
How is your work funded:
Neuroprogressive and Dementia Network
Tell us a little about yourself:
My name is Fiona and I am a retired physiotherapist who specialised in care of the elderly and neurological conditions. During this time I signed up for SHARE and subsequently took part in research studies into Alzheimer’s Disease. I also joined the Patient and Public Involvement group. Around 2020, my mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease and as her disease progressed, my caring role increased until her passing in October 2024. In July 2021 I was contacted by Rosie and asked if I would like to be involved in the Partners in Research group which was part of the Neuroprogressive and Dementia Network.
My wish to be involved in the group has been on many levels. Firstly as an advocate for my mum and the issues she and my family encountered during her diagnosis, disease progression and finally her end of life care. Personally, the experience of being a carer and the barriers I faced to access information, support and self-care. Professionally I still have an interest in research and evidence based practice not just for dementia but for all neuroprogressive conditions that I encountered in my working life. I am enjoying the experience of working with others who have great passion for what we do, the feeling we can make a difference and facilitate change in the lives of those diagnosed with these conditions and their carers either by reviewing research proposals for academics, co-research or working on projects with researches from out with this group.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself:
I live in an old Farmhouse in Angus with my husband and beautiful Leonberger dog called Tilly. She is 18 months old and a giant breed with a very gentle and loving nature. She frequently makes an appearance at our Teams meetings and “dressed” as a reindeer for out Christmas event!
Why did you choose to work in dementia?
Caring for my mother with dementia and seeing someone go from being a sweet, loving, caring mother, to a scared, aggressive shell of her former self was heartbreaking. If I can help even in some small way, to facilitate change, input into research and help stop others losing their loved ones in this way, I will. It’s what my mum would have done.
What single piece of advise would you give to an early-career researcher?
Listen and speak to people with lived experience. Make your research relatable to the real issues people with dementia face, not what you think they may be!
What book are you reading right now? Would you recommend it?
Nothing right now
Favourite film of all time?
Notting Hill
Favourite ways to unplug and unwind?
I love to craft! Paper craft, making cards and shadow boxes. I have also dabbled in stained glass and fused glass.
What’s the best decision you ever made?
Moving to the farmhouse.
What’s your favourite vacation spot?
Pittenweem in Fife.
Do you collect anything?
Craft items. I have more than I’ll ever use, but have to get more, just in case…….
Can we find you on social media?
No but the Neuroprogressive and Dementia Network is on LinkedIn
Dr Emma Law
