Stalling dementia, volunteers needed
Vital research that may uncover a way to stall the progression of dementia requires more volunteers. More people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease are needed for research into whether exercise can help slow the decline of cognitive function and memory.
Vital research that may uncover a way to stall the progression of dementia requires more volunteers.
More people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease are needed for research into whether exercise can help slow the decline of cognitive function and memory.
Kay Cox, lead Perth researcher of the national study, said 20 to 30 further WA volunteers were needed for the Australia-first study being run by the University of WA and Royal Perth Hospital.
Dr Cox, a University of Western Australia-based exercise physiologist, said the 24-week study involved cognitive assessments and participants would be randomly allocated to do a home-based walking program or continue their normal activity levels – both with their carers.
At the completion of the study all participants would be offered advice on how to increase their exercise levels, Dr Cox said.
“This is not going to cure dementia but we know from our study in older adults with mild cognitive impairment in 2008 that those who did the program experienced benefits for their memory,” Dr Cox said.
“So now we are looking at the group who actually have the disease to see whether we can slow the decline in cognition and memory.
“It is as promising as any of the other drug treatments that are available, without any side effects.”
While results are not yet available, participants and their carers had so far reported feeling improved wellbeing and enjoyed the focus the study provided.
For more information phone (08) 9224 0233 or (08) 9224 0242.
