The METHODEM project

INTERDEM is a European network of researchers aiming to advance early detection and develop effective psychosocial interventions in dementia. Essential to this mission is a critical exploration of how evidence is generated. The INTERDEM Methodology Taskforce, consisting of >20 international and multi-disciplinary researchers, meets monthly to discuss methodologies and methods. One outcome of their efforts is an opinion article* on methodological gaps in the field highlighting issues with randomized controlled trials, meaningful stakeholder participation, and theory-driven evaluations (Bartels et al., 2024).

Moreover, the Taskforce considers how methodologies and methods align with the core elements of the widely used Medical Research Council Framework (Skivington et al., 2024), which guides complex intervention development, evaluation, and implementation. Its core elements, namely i) consider context; ii) develop, refine, and (re)test program theory; iii) engage stakeholders; iv) identify uncertainties; v) refine intervention; and vi) economic considerations, are central in research processes. Until now, however, no overview exists of methodologies and methods used in dementia research and how these core elements are addressed. Additionally, a consensus on core elements, and which methodologies and methods are most feasible to cover them for psychosocial intervention research in dementia, is lacking.