This week Neuroclin marks the commencement of Dementia Action Week, running from 13th to 19th May 2024. Spearheaded by the Alzheimer’s Society, this initiative seeks to mobilise the UK in significantly enhancing the diagnosis rates of dementia. It’s a stark reality that 1 in 3 people living with dementia are undiagnosed, underlining the critical importance of this campaign and the research work undertaken by Neuroclin
The Silent Struggle
Dementia is caused by various neurological disorders that impair cognitive function, Alzheimer’s disease being the commonest cause of dementia. Symptoms range from memory loss to difficulties with language, problem-solving, and changes in mood or behaviour. Unfortunately, these symptoms are often misconstrued as normal aspects of ageing, leading to delays in seeking medical advice and highlights why the early detection and screening work undertaken by Neuroclin are important.
Why undergo screening for Alzheimer’s?
The importance of securing a timely and accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is well recognised globally. It allows individuals and their families to access necessary support and treatment, to plan for the future, and maintain a higher quality of life. Disease modifying treatments now available in the USA may soon become available in Europe and the UK. Screening is a prerequisite for participating in clinical research studies, which can offer access to new and potential new treatments not yet available on the NHS.
Recognising the Signs of Early Alzheimer’s
Have you experienced changes in your memory? Are you worried your memory is declining?
Early detection of Alzheimer’s disease involves recognising signs that often go unnoticed. The checklist below , is not exhaustive but can assist as a guide to notable cognitive changes:
Learning and Memory: Difficulties recalling events, repetitive questions, needing reminders, missing appointments.
Language: Challenges finding the right words, spelling mistakes, vocabulary changes, grammatical errors.
Executive Functions: Problems making decisions, organising, planning.
Attention: Easily distracted, impairments in mental calculations, errors in routine activities (e.g. forgetting to lock the door).
Orientation and Social Cognition: Losing track of dates, difficulty with familiar tasks such as driving, getting lost in known surroundings, changes in personality, safety misjudgements.
It is crucial to be aware of such changes in cognitive abilities or behaviour, especially if they impact daily functioning.
How You Can Take Action and how NeuroClin can help?
If you or a loved one has experienced two or more of the above symptoms, you may be suitable to be screened at Neuroclin. Neuroclin has a range of studies running for people in various stages of Alzheimer’s. Screening usually involves a series of tests to determine cognitive function and help identify the presence of Alzheimer’s disease. Tests such as specific Alzheimer’s blood based biomarkers, genetic tests and specialised MRI and PET scans are now routinely conducted during the screening process and provide vital information to enable the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease.
Neuroclin is currently running a number of studies that seek participants who are worried about their memory or are experiencing memory decline. By participating in a study, you can gain a greater insight into your own condition whilst contributing directly to research.
Dementia Action Week aims to improve diagnosis rates and foster a supportive community, dispelling the stigma associated with dementia. Everyone has a role to play, from educating oneself and others about the condition, advocating for improved care and policies, to participating in research studies.
Contact Neuroclin – Take a proactive step during Dementia Action Week by turning concern into action. If you would like to apply to take part, please complete our online pre-screener here, or give us a call on 0141 948 0206 to discuss your individual circumstances with a member of our friendly patient liaison team, who can answer your questions.