Real stories

How can you help dementia researchers to build knowledge and make new breakthroughs?

For many years, research into dementia lagged behind other health conditions. But thanks to the participation of many people like you, strides are being made that were hard to imagine before.

The range of recent and ongoing dementia research is mindboggling.

While some focus on tests to improve diagnosis, others are creating apps and devices to manage symptoms and care. Other studies are developing new treatments which actually change the course of diseases that cause dementia.

Across these areas, there’s little that could be achieved without people taking part in research.

Which studies could you join?

Sharon Boulter, Research Participation Officer at the Society, encourages people to get in touch to find out more.

‘We want to enable you to find out what types of studies you could participate in,’ says Sharon.

People are often surprised by how easy it is to register their interest so they can hear about opportunities.

Join Dementia Research provides an important way to do this. 

Anyone over 18 in the UK can sign up to be matched with studies that need volunteers. You can even register someone else on their behalf if you have their consent or power of attorney.

There’s no obligation to take part in a study you’re matched with – you decide when something comes up that you’d like to be a part of.

You don’t need a diagnosis

Sharon underlines how researchers are looking for all kinds of participants.

‘Research is like trying to solve a complicated jigsaw puzzle,’ she says. ‘You may have a piece of the puzzle that can help researchers complete some of the picture.

Every mind matters – you don’t need to have a diagnosis of dementia to participate.

‘There are a wide variety of studies you can take part in. You might be invited to complete an online survey, join a focus group, listen to music, take a blood test, trial new medications, or even try out innovative technology like virtual reality.’