Open event highlights Alzheimer’s and dementia research

Posted January 07th 2014

Representatives from NCMH joined individuals with dementia, carers, research volunteers, students, health care professionals and interested members of the public last month for the Cardiff University Alzheimer’s disease research team’s annual open afternoon.

The event on 2nd December was delivered in association with Alzheimer’s Research UK, and highlighted the latest research developments into the causes and treatment of different types of dementia.

The day featured several talks from experts in the field, as well as information stands and laboratory tours, alongside with performances from the Young Persons with Dementia Choir and Monstrous Productions Theatre Company.

The open afternoon aimed to update stakeholders on the current directions within research, but also to provide a platform to ask questions and provoke discussion around the issues concerned with dementia.

“I really enjoyed the open event on dementia today” said Registered General Nurse Kate Sinnott. “It was a good balance of talks and entertainment and the stalls present were very informative. I met some interesting people whilst I was there too.”

Through international collaborations in recent years, Cardiff University Alzheimer’s disease research group, led by Professor Julie Williams, have been able to publish 22 new genetic associations in Alzheimer’s disease.

There was a focus on young onset dementia throughout the event. This form of dementia usually occurs before the age of 65, and it is now believed that this more rare form of the condition holds the key to unlocking the remaining genetic components of Alzheimer’s disease.

This will only be possible if more individuals diagnosed with young onset dementia come forward and decide to participate in the research projects.

To find out how to take part, or if you would like further information, please contact the Alzheimer’s disease research team at Cardiff University on 029 2068 8042 or adresearch@cardiff.ac.uk.