Project leader: Prof Rebecca Palm

Project team members: Jasmin Helbach, Vincent Molitor

Funding: Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences

Project duration: 2025-2027

Brief summary:

Under the scientific direction of Prof Rebecca Palm, the expert standard "Delirium" is being developed in co-operation with Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences. The expert standards in nursing care are coordinated and published by the German Network for Quality Development in Nursing. The team at the University of Oldenburg is compiling a cross-sectoral literature study on delirium management in care based on the steps of the care process. On this basis, a group of fifteen experts develops annotated quality criteria, which are then discussed and agreed at an interprofessional consensus conference.

Click here for the project website: DeliDem-NH // University of Oldenburg

Trauma-related Challenges in Dementia Care (TraCeD)

Challenges in the care of people with dementia and a history of trauma

Project leaders:
Prof. Dr Kathrin Boerner (Department of Prevention and Rehabilitation)
Prof. Dr Rebecca Palm (Department of Nursing Science)

Research staff:
Katharina Reinhart, M.Sc.

Funding period:
Since 1 March 2026

Project funding:
Own funds

Project description:
In the provision of care for people with dementia, the perception and recognition of potential traumatic experiences in a person’s life history are of great significance. Care activities such as washing or dressing, as well as certain sounds, smells or dialects, can act as triggers leading to the re-experiencing of traumatic events or to retraumatisation.

In recent years, the links between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and dementia have been increasingly investigated. Studies have shown that people with PTSD are at an increased risk of developing dementia over the course of their lives. Furthermore, studies have indicated that dementia can contribute to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder with delayed onset (delayed-onset PTSD). These findings are based primarily on research involving war veterans and Holocaust survivors. However, little is currently known about the specific challenges that arise in the care of people with dementia and traumatic experiences.

The research project ‘Trauma-related challenges in dementia care’ (TraCe) investigates the experiences of carers, counsellors and support staff when dealing with people with dementia and traumatic experiences. The focus is on challenges in the care of people with dementia and trauma resulting from sexualised violence. The project comprises both a structured scientific literature review and empirical research. As part of a scoping review, the current state of research will first be systematically reviewed and existing research gaps identified. Qualitative data collection aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges in care provision and the associated vulnerabilities, coping strategies, resources and previously overlooked areas. Various data collection methods, including problem-centred interviews, are used for this purpose. Based on the research findings, measures for trauma-sensitive care can be developed.