'In the particular is contained the universal': reflexive exploration of a Photovoice researcher

I am principal investigator of a study utilising Photovoice, a participatory action methodology, to explore the experiences of carers from ethnically diverse communities supporting loved ones with cognitive decline. The Putting Me Into Memory Services (PMIMS) Study has been co-produced with the Chinese, Caribbean and South Asian communities of Sheffield to seek greater understanding of their cultural interpretations (understandings, behaviours, cultural norms and traditions) of ageing and dementia and the barriers and enablers of access and uptake to dementia services. The study involved participants submitting photographs of their daily lives and discussing these during a focus group.     This creative enquiry summarises a reflexive exploration of my emotional responses to a selection of these photographs and my motivations for conducting this primary care research. Through these fly-on-the-wall snapshots of domestic moments, their 'particular' reminds me of our collective 'universal'. The viewer must consider their own experience in order to interpret the meanings behind the photographs and by doing so draws out common understanding.     I will consider 3 themes:  - Valuing our elders   - The frustrations of the system   - Loneliness     Valuing our elders  Photo 1 was submitted by a Chinese participant and depicts wild mushrooms growing from the trunk of a decaying tree on the forest floor. I found this image, in relation to the study topic, profoundly moving. It reminded me of the inter-connectedness of generations and tapped into my deep unease at how the elders in our society are often dismissed and undervalued; intensified further if suffering from the cruel effects of dementia. By celebrating the prevailing value, wisdom and stability that older generations can provide, perhaps we can reframe the narrative from burden to benefit?    The frustrations of the system  Photo 2, 3 & 4 were submitted by participants from the Caribbean community and visually represents the shared frustration that my patients and I feel when faced with the failings of our current health system. I work in a Deep End, ethnically diverse practice in Sheffield and often feel despair at the inequity experienced by my patients. In the context of advocating for loved ones, this can be an exhausting task and carers can often feel left in the dark.      Loneliness  Photo 5 was submitted by a Chinese participant and caused a strong emotional response in me. The caption highlights the loneliness of the carer; despite living with her mother suffering with dementia, she feels emotionally alone. She is reminded of this repeatedly through the mundane moments of daily life. Although the context is completely different, it brought to mind my own feelings of loneliness as a single mum. I felt with sharp focus, the pain of emotional isolation despite being in the presence of loved ones.