11th November 2002

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Researchers at the University of Ulster are taking part in a £260,000 joint US-EC project aimed at improving nursing care of elderly people.

The project, which links six universities in America, Sweden, Italy and Northern Ireland, will blend knowledge from nursing and business disciplines in order to improve leadership in older people care in health care organisations.

Over a three year period the universities will create a model for nursing education through the collaboration and exchange of 30 students and 12 academic staff from the participating institutions.

According to Professor Hugh McKenna, Head of the University of Ulster’s School of Nursing, the project will mean that nurses will gain advanced knowledge and skills in the care of elderly people.

“Like other health professions, many nurses still do not underpin their practice with the most up-to-date evidence. This innovative EU-US project will ensure that learning and practice in the care of older people is up to date, efficient and effective”, Professor McKenna added.

The ambition is to ensure that elderly people get the best care and treatment possible and can remain independent for as long as possible. The project will also have an emphasis on care of older people in the community.

Participation in the project is recognition of the University of Ulster’s international profile on nurse education, practice development and research.

The School of Nursing at UU has a Research Group focusing on the Care of Older People lead by Brendan McCormack, Professor of Gerontologic Nursing.

For further information, please contact:

Press Office Department of Communication and Development
Telephone: 028 9036 6178
Email: pressoffice@ulster.ac.uk