This edition's Researcher in Focus is Carmel McKenna, Principal and Creative
Programme Director (Health and Wellbeing) at Munster Academy of Irish Dance. Carmel specialises in adaptive Irish céilí dance programmes, co-developed with and for people living with dementia, and took some time
out of her busy schedule to share her research with us.
What is your area of research?
My research focuses on exploring the psychosocial effects of participation in person-centred inclusive adaptive céilí (partnered, social) dance/movement activities which have been co-developed with older adults, people with physical, cognitive and/or sensory disabilities and conditions including dementia, and their professional and family support networks.
What made you interested in this area?
A combination of factors including my professional experience in Irish dance for over five decades, my personal experience as a former carer for a family member with dementia and my core values of community and inclusivity. I believe that Irish dance, particularly céilí, is an activity in which all ages, all levels and all abilities can take part and enjoy, and I have made it my mission to explore ways to make that happen.
What impact would you like your research to have?
There is limited research on the role of traditional dance forms in enhancing quality of life outcomes for people living with dementia, so I know that my research is already having an impact in filling that research gap. The evidence base garnered through my research has also aided the development of a user-centric inclusive adaptive dance leader training programme, which is delivered by All Irish Dance, a not-for-profit social enterprise which I founded in 2023.
Who has helped or inspired you in your area of research?
As an associate member of the Social Sciences ConneXions Research Institute (SSC) at the Technological University of the Shannon for almost a decade, I continue to be inspired, supported and encouraged by my fellow researchers especially Jennifer Moran Stritch (Principal Investigator of the Loss and Grief Research Group) and Dr. Frank Houghton (SSC Director).
What current research are you most excited about (your own, or that of others)?
I have recently completed a pilot research project with Jennifer Moran Stritch (SSC), Séan Dónal O’Shea (Alzheimer Society of Ireland) and Alzheimer Scotland comparing the psychosocial effects of participation in inclusive adaptive Irish and Scottish céilí dance/movement activities for people living with dementia and their support networks in both care and community settings. We are currently exploring ways to continue this collaboration and I am excited to see where this might lead.
What do you do when you are not working?
Irish dancing!
What is your favourite pastime?
Again, Irish dancing is top of the list. I also enjoy walking my golden retriever Imogen and attending sports events when I can.
What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
In research, always ask yourself “what if?”
Contact Details:
Email: allirishdance1@gmail.com
Website: www.allirishdance.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AllIrishDance
Twitter/X: https://x.com/AllIrishDance23
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allirishdance1/
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carmel-mckenna-all-irish-dance-aa4a5826/