Heather Yemm

Dr. Heather Yemm is a Research Fellow at the Helen McArdle Nursing and Care Research Institute within the Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellbeing at the University of Sunderland. Her research centers around ageing, with a particular focus on dementia and cognitive impairment across diverse populations.

Her primary research interests include:

• Experiences of people living with cognitive impairment and dementia
• Experiences of informal/family carers of people living with cognitive impairment and dementia
• Care and support pathways for people living with dementia
• Workforce development in older adult care settings
• Community support and engagement for older people
• Reducing stigma surrounding dementia and ageing

Dr. Yemm's recent research has focused on multi-stakeholder perceptions of cognitive impairment, understandings of mild cognitive impairment, and the development of tools to detect dementia in low- and middle-income countries. Her work often employs qualitative methodologies and systematic reviews to understand the lived experiences of older adults facing cognitive challenges.

Her notable scientific recognitions include:

• Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society
• Certified NVivo Expert

Dr. Yemm actively supervises PhD students and delivers expert lectures on ethics and working with vulnerable populations. She is also involved in several significant research projects including the Northern Health Futures Hub (EPSRC Funded) and evaluations of dementia care services across the North East of England.