Infra-red helmet for Alzheimer's
Published 28 January 2009
Alzheimer's Society comment on the infra-red helmet trialled by Sir Terry Pratchett in the forthcoming BBC Two documentary. Manufacturers claim the helmet improves cognition in people with dementia.
'We welcome any new initiatives to help fight dementia, but the infra-red helmet is still at an early stage of research. We need a proper clinical trial to determine whether or not it is a safe and effective treatment for people with dementia.
700,000 people are living with dementia and one million people will develop the condition in the next ten years. Many would try anything to stop this devastating condition robbing them of their lives. It is vital that we do not generate false hope and that all potential treatments are rigorously tested.'
Professor Clive Ballard
Director of Research
Alzheimer's Society
Notes to editors:
- 1 in 3 people over 65 will die with dementia.
- 700,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than 20 years nearly a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051. 1 in 6 people over 80 have dementia.
- Alzheimer's Society campaigns for and champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions who care for them. Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
- As a charity, Alzheimer's Society needs to raise money to care for people today and to find a cure for tomorrow. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk.
- Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk
