Robert Burns as a Touchstone for Early Memory in People Living with Dementia

Following a fruitful discussion at the Brain Health ARC's arts meeting in the spring of 2025, Dr Craig Lamont, Lecturer in Scottish Studies at the University of Glasgow, and Prof Louise Ritchie, Professor in Dementia Research at the University of the West of Scotland, applied for Brain Health ARC seed funding to explore Robert Burns as a touchstone for early memory in workshops for people with a recent diagnosis of dementia.

Craig and Louise subsequently secured funding and hosted workshops at the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow and at the Kilmarnock Brain Health & Dementia Resource Centre. During each session, participants discussed their thoughts, opinions, and memories of Robert Burns’ poems, songs, and legacy. Naturally, discussions became free flowing with Burns, Scotland, identity, and heritage all up for debate. Many participants even wrote some of their own poems, often about their early memories.

​As a celebration of their work on this collaboration, and to thank the participants, a Burns Supper was held at the Royal College in Glasgow on 22nd January 2026 with the full board, the piping of the haggis, and the customary speeches and toasts.

Craig and Louise are planning more work together in what they believe will be an enjoyable and meaningful period of research.