Dementia New Zealand is proud to celebrate Hoda Fahmy’s recent achievement in being awarded the Health Research Council of New Zealand Clinical Research Training Fellowship. This funding will support her PhD research at the University of Auckland, focused on the patterns and predictors of opioid use in adults living with dementia | mate wareware.

This research marks the first nationwide study of its kind in Aotearoa and will examine opioid medication use across both young-onset dementia (under 65) and late-onset dementia (65 and over). By using national health datasets, Hoda aims to identify prescribing trends and better understand which groups are more likely to be prescribed opioids.

The study will also address an important concern: people with dementia | mate wareware are particularly vulnerable to opioid-related side effects, such as drowsiness, cognitive changes, and constipation.

As Hoda explains, “Although opioids often come with a lot of stigma and negative perceptions, the key lies in their appropriate use and vigilant monitoring. Some people do need opioids, but there are concerns about persistent use if they’re not needed.”

Hoda’s research will also explore how prescribing policies in aged residential care compare to local and international guidelines, contributing to safer prescribing practices for New Zealanders living with dementia.

Cathy Cooney, CE of Dementia New Zealand, says: “We are delighted to see Hoda’s important research recognised and supported by the Health Research Council. It has the potential to deliver practical insights that improve care outcomes for people living with dementia and their whānau.”

Hoda’s work highlights the importance of understanding pain management for those living with dementia, particularly for Māori, who are more likely to live with dementia at a younger age and experience higher rates of opioid prescribing.

We are proud to have supported Hoda’s application and look forward to following the progress of her research.

Ngā mihi nui, Hoda, and congratulations on this well-deserved recognition.