Research publications

Dementia Research: A Vision for Australia

Alzheimer’s Australia publication discussing dementia research and the implications for funding for research, prevention and early intervention strategies.

Vision statement
US Professor Zaven Khachaturian, worked with Australian experts to develop the Vision. He says that: "delaying the onset of dementia or slowing its progression will lessen the average number of years that people will spend living with the disease, improving quality of life for older Australians and their families. Importantly, the impact on health costs will also be dramatic, as people living with dementia for shorter periods will need less health care and community services."

Research has already revealed some of the lifestyle and other factors that increase the risk of dementia. Modifying these risks may prevent or delay the onset of dementia. Currently scientists are investigating the role of oxidative stress, inflammation and cell death in neurodegeneration, with a view to developing future dementia treatments. 

Dementia Research: A Vision for Australia 

Dementia Research: A Vision for Australia - References 

Stem Cell Research

Alzheimer’s Australia recognises the potential for stem cell research to assist in further understanding Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, and it’s potential to assist in developing new therapeutic strategies. While in the short term, stem cell based therapies may be more likely to benefit other neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s Australia believes that stem cell research is a valuable research area that holds great promise to yield insight into many neurological disorders. Endorsed by the Board October 2006. 

Alzheimer's Australia's policy position paper on Stem Cell research

The original Alzheimer’s Australia policy position on stem cell research was endorsed by the National Board in April 2002. In light of the Lockhart review and the current debate on the issue, it seems timely to review Alzheimer’s Australia’s position on the use of stem cells in research. Alzheimer’s Australia’s current policy position is supportive of stem cell research, within appropriate regulatory guidelines. It is important that Alzheimer’s Australia’s position continues to be based on an informed scientific view while recognising the range of personal viewpoints around this issue. 

Alzheimer's Australia's background paper on Stem Cell research