U-CARE’s Oscar Blomberg has defended his PhD thesis

The theme for Oscar Blomberg’s dissertation is psychological support for people living with dementia and their informal caregivers. His work is part of two related projects. One focuses on further developing a support programme for people with dementia and adapting it to the Swedish context. The other explores the support needs and challenges experienced by daughter caregivers supporting a parent with dementia.

How does it feel to have completed your PhD project?

– I’m very happy, Oscar Blomberg says with a smile. I’ve always thought that I would pursue a PhD. In one sense, I have already moved on to the next step in my mind, but I try to stop and appreciate what I have accomplished.

Why did you choose this topic for your PhD project?

– There is a great need for support among people with dementia following a diagnosis, Oscar explains. The support programme we are further developing is aimed at people in early stages of dementia who also experience depression. Depression is underdiagnosed in this group.

What would you say is your main contribution to the research field?

– The psychological support programme we are further developing is using low-intensity cognitive behavioral therapy, which is not commonly applied in Sweden. This form of support programme is flexible and easy to access, which makes it well-suited for people with dementia, as they often face barriers when seeking and receiving support.

Can you tell us about your journey as a PhD student? What has it been like?

– I started almost seven years ago as a Research Assistant within the same project that I later pursued as my PhD. At that point, I wanted to learn more about academia, and when a PhD position opened up, I took the chance. It has been very personally enriching. What I have found most interesting has been meeting people with dementia and their loved ones.

What have you found most challenging during your PhD project?

– The most challenging part has been to realize that research takes time. You’ve got to adapt. It can, for example, be difficult to recruit study participants, and sometimes the work requires long hours. At the same time, I have received great support from my supervisors. I have also had great support from the Writing Club and other supportive groups in our research group.

What are your future plans?

– I will, hopefully, continue working in this project. I thrive when I keep learning new things, and it feels stimulating to work with something that is truly meaningful.

Congratulations once again, Oscar! We look forward to following your future research career.

Miro Anter