Launch of once a day drink for people with early Alzheimer’s disease

The product, Souvenaid is a result of ten years research into the nutritional needs of people living with the condition.

Alzheimer’s Society comment:

'People shouldn’t get excited that an off-the-shelf drink is going to transform the lives of people with dementia. While past studies of this product have showed some benefits for memory, there is no evidence that it has an effect on other aspects of thinking or everyday life and there was also no benefit on other symptoms of dementia.

'This is likely to cost about £1000 a year and is a lot less effective than current drugs available for people in the early stages of dementia. For many older people with dementia where finances might be tight, people are probably much better off putting their money towards good quality care or taking part in exercise. One in three people over 65 will develop dementia. It’s vital we continue to fund research into new treatments to enable people to live well with the condition.'

Professor Clive Ballard
Director of Research
Alzheimer’s Society

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Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will develop with dementia
• Alzheimer’s Society research shows that 800,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer’s disease. In less than ten years 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 has a plan to deal with dementia. Help us support people to live well today and fight for a world without dementia tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. 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 0300 222 11 22 or visit alzheimers.org.uk