Can dementia care be transformed not only by medicine but by meaningful human connection? That’s the question driving the SPLENDID Project, the UK’s largest study on social prescribing for people living with dementia.

In a recent episode of The Dementia Research Project podcast, producer Matt Durai spoke with Professor Chris Fox, Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at the University of Exeter and co-lead of SPLENDID, to explore how social prescribing could complement medical care and reshape outcomes for people with dementia.

Beyond Medicine: A Holistic Approach

Social prescribing connects individuals with community-based activities—nature walks, art sessions, music groups, or local volunteering—that promote wellbeing and reduce isolation. Professor Fox emphasised that these interventions are not a substitute for treatment, but a powerful complement that enhances quality of life and sustains cognitive and emotional health.

The Human Link

Central to SPLENDID’s success is the link worker, described by Fox as the “navigator” of care. These professionals tailor recommendations to each person’s history, preferences, culture, and community context. Whether coordinating with religious leaders or removing cost barriers, link workers ensure social prescribing is personal, equitable, and practical.

Building Evidence for Global Adoption

Although SPLENDID is UK-based, its design is low-cost and adaptable. Durai and Fox discussed the model’s international relevance, from Malaysia to Canada. Scaling up, however, depends on training, sustainable funding, and long-term evaluation. As Fox noted, “This could be the largest proof point yet that social prescribing can truly change dementia care worldwide.”

Why It Matters

Large-scale trials like SPLENDID are vital in demonstrating the return on investment of community-based health interventions. They help policymakers and health systems understand how social prescribing can deliver measurable improvements in wellbeing while easing pressure on clinical services.

Listen to the full conversation here: 🎧 The Dementia Research Project – Professor Chris Fox