Young informal caregivers in higher education

Julie Vanderlinden (PhD), Odisee University of applied Sciences (Belgium)

julie.vanderlinden@odisee.be

Abstract

Did you know that around one in five students in higher education is balancing their studies with caring for a loved one? Despite their resilience, these young carers often remain invisible within our institutions, facing hidden challenges that impact their wellbeing, academic success, and future opportunities.

In this webinar, we shine a spotlight on these students and explore what higher education can do to better support them. You will gain insight into the diverse realities of young carers, from emotional and practical caregiving responsibilities to the profound effects on study progress, mental wellbeing, and life choices.

Together, we will move beyond awareness and focus on action. Through concrete examples and real-life experiences, we will show how institutions can create more flexible, inclusive, and supportive learning environments, by recognising signals, reducing stigma, and implementing meaningful support structures such as accessible contact points and tailored policies.

Whether you are an educator, policymaker, or student support professional, this webinar will leave you with practical tools and fresh inspiration to make a real difference. Join us in building a more inclusive higher education system where every student, also those with care responsibilities, can thrive.

Stress and sleep problems in young onset dementia

Julie Vanderlinden (PhD), Odisee University of applied Sciences (Belgium)

julie.vanderlinden@odisee.be

Abstract

How can we better support people with young-onset dementia and their families when anxiety, stress and sleep problems become part of everyday life? Despite their profound impact, these psychosocial challenges are often insufficiently addressed in current care, and fragmented care systems further complicate support across home and care settings.

In this webinar, we present insights from a co-creative research project that explores how to strengthen and connect expertise across (semi)residential care and the home environment. Drawing on qualitative research with care professionals, people with young-onset dementia and their caregivers, we highlight how anxiety, stress and sleep problems are deeply intertwined and affect not only individuals, but entire care networks.

We will introduce the “Connected Care” framework, developed to bridge gaps between care settings and to support a more integrated, person-centred approach. Central to this framework are: strengthening care professionals’ competencies, improving communication and collaboration with the home context, and implementing practical, non-pharmacological strategies.

Building on the YOUNG-D programme, a structured psychosocial intervention developed to enhance coping with anxiety, stress and sleep problems, the webinar will demonstrate how evidence-informed techniques, such as breathing exercises, mindfulness and cognitive-behavioural strategies, can be translated into everyday care practice.

Participants will gain:

• Insight into the psychosocial needs of people with young-onset dementia and their caregivers
• Practical tools to reduce anxiety, stress and sleep disturbances
• Inspiration on how to strengthen collaboration across care settings
• Concrete examples of how to act as a “bridge” between professional care and the home environment

This webinar invites healthcare professionals, researchers and policymakers to rethink care as a connected, collaborative process, where expertise does not stop at the walls of an institution, but actively supports life at home.