Earlier attempts to increase the work potential of visually impaired persons (VIPs) have failed. Only 30% are part of the Dutch workforce. With our collaborative partners, we will generate knowledge and create field labs with VIPs and employers. We will inform policy makers how to change legislation, employers how to engage VIPs in their workforce and train occupational professionals to improve care. With e-health applications and tools, we will empower VIPs and train them to maintain vitality while at work or commuting. Work participation and inclusive and sustainable employability will only succeed in a multisectoral approach with all stakeholders.

Can language help to solve communication challenges in consultations with patients presenting medically unexplained symptoms (MUS)? These symptoms are serious and not well understood. Although scholars have repeatedly ascertained the importance of doctor-patient interactions for establishing and handling MUS, previous research failed to involve a linguistic account of communication. This project will strengthen the link between medical and linguistic research on communication to define what good communication in terms of language encompasses. Medical research indicates that positive wordings would have therapeutic effects, but studies merely compare effects of messages with different contents (e.g. “it will sting a little bit” versus no warning message for medical procedures). Message content (what is said) and language (how it is said) are not distinguished. Yet, subtle language differences affect patients’ emotions and cognitions and thereby their quality of life and wellbeing. The aim of the proposed project is twofold. First, to capture how key linguistic elements are constructed during GP-patient interactions. Second, to analyse psychological mechanisms of language use variations affecting medical outcomes. The project will build towards a model that defines working mechanisms of language in medical interactions. Results will help to understand the construction and effects of language use in general practice consultations and will provide input for GP guidelines and education on what (not) to say.

The immune system is a complex network of cells that works to maintain balance in the body, pretty much like an internal sensing organ. Its responses are shaped by environmental factors such as viruses and microplastics, which can influence chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer. Recent advances in single-cell technologies provide deeper insights into immune function, aiding personalized treatments like immunotherapy. Our consortium consists of academic experts that will work together to identify immune markers for chronic diseases, using new technologies and involving patient organizations, clinicians, and even an art gallery to make a broad scientific and societal impact.

Mensen met een licht verstandelijke beperking (lvb) ervaren meer eenzaamheid dan mensen zonder lvb. In het COLLELO project werken onderzoekers uit de sociale en geesteswetenschappen samen met mensen met lvb en hun (in)formele netwerken aan een (online) lerende gemeenschap die de eenzaamheid van mensen met lvb wil begrijpen en verminderen.

Mensen met een licht verstandelijke beperking (lvb) ervaren meer eenzaamheid dan mensen zonder lvb. In het COLLELO project werken onderzoekers uit de sociale en geesteswetenschappen samen met mensen met lvb en hun (in)formele netwerken aan een (online) lerende gemeenschap die de eenzaamheid van mensen met lvb wil begrijpen en verminderen.