Lay summary
This study examines the effectiveness of virtually delivered cognitive stimulation therapy for individuals with mild to moderate dementia mate wareware, and assesses both the impact and cost-effectiveness of the intervention and gather user feedback. The study commences with qualitative investigations into the context of delivering a virtual intervention in Aotearoa New Zealand followed by a pragmatic randomised controlled trial (pRCT). Outcomes focus on cognition, quality of life, and communication outcomes, supplemented by qualitative assessments of user experiences and an economic analysis of pRCT data. Emphasising a Māori-centred, tikanga-based approach in settings involving Māori, the project aims to use telehealth to address access barriers, particularly for those in rural areas or with mobility constraints addressing ethnic and geographic diversity in health service access and aiming to provide post-diagnosis support for people living with dementia mate wareware. The project is underpinned by longstanding working relationships with the dementia community to ensure impact.