Alzheimer’s comment on research that cognitive activities delay onset of memory decline in persons who develop dementia, published in Neurology, 4 August 2009

It suggests that people who will develop dementia may be able to delay memory loss by daily activities that stimulate the brain such as reading, writing and card games. Many previous studies have reported that higher education early in life is associated with delay in memory loss in people who are developing dementia.

'Interestingly this research has found that memory loss in people who are in the very early stages of the condition may be delayed by ordinary activities that engage the brain whether they were well educated in early life or not.  

This research suggests that exercising your brain as well as your body may play a role in the fight against dementia. With one million people set to develop dementia in the next ten years, we must invest more in research to defeat this devastating condition.'

Dr Susanne Sorensen
Head of Research
Alzheimer's Society 

Ends

Notes to editors

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 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.
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them.
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
• Alzheimer's Society needs to raise money to help people live well with dementia today and for research 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
  

For futher information please contact the press office on 0207 423 3595 or email press@alzheimers.org.uk