The number of people living with dementia continues to increase. We need effective interventions to prevent or delay dementia. Eating a Mediterranean diet and increasing physical activity may reduce dementia risk. The MedEx-UK study (2019-2021, Alzheimer’s Research UK/MRC funded) tests the feasibility and acceptability of a 48-week Mediterranean diet and physical activity intervention which includes a website, group sessions and food delivery/vouchers to support behaviour change. 108 participants at elevated risk were randomised to a standard advice group (control), Mediterranean diet only intervention or Mediterranean diet plus physical activity intervention.
This PhD project provides a unique opportunity to understand a wide range of influences on the adoption and maintenance of a Mediterranean diet and increases in physical activity. Influences include group session delivery, website content, participant engagement, perceived utility of food delivery/vouchers, motivation, confidence, and use of behaviour change strategies. We collected extensive quantitative and qualitative data on behaviour change (increased Mediterranean diet adherence and physical activity) and its influences. The PhD student will design a research proposal in discussion with supervisors. The findings will enhance our understanding about how the MedEx-UK intervention worked, for whom, and how, which will inform future studies and government policy. The findings will be disseminated in the Thesis and peer-reviewed publications.
The student will join a multi-disciplinary team conducting world-class research into behavioural science nutrition, physical activity, and dementia prevention. The training programme includes behavioural science methods, process evaluation, mixed methods, dissemination/impact, and personal development. We are seeking a student with a good first degree (at least 2:1) and preferably a Masters in a related topic area (e.g., behavioural science, health psychology, nutrition, physical activity) or equivalent research experience. The student will have an interest in behaviour change, nutrition and/or physical activity, and be committed and self-directed. Applications for a part-time PhD are welcomed.
For more information on the supervisor for this project, please go here: https://people.uea.ac.uk/w_hardeman, https://people.uea.ac.uk/s_hanson, https://people.uea.ac.uk/a_minihane
This is a PHD programme. The start date is 1st October 2021. The mode of study is full time or part time. The studentship length is 3 years.
Entry requirements: This project is suitable for applicants with a good first degree (at least 2:1) and preferably a Masters in a related topic area (e.g., behavioural science, health psychology, nutrition, physical activity) or equivalent research experience. The student will have an interest in behaviour change, nutrition and/or physical activity, and be committed and self-directed. Applications for a part-time PhD are welcomed.
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