In the UK today between 400,000 - 700,000 people are estimated to be suffering from dementia. While all sufferers experience similar symptoms, the disease progresses differently, depending on the type. Dementia patients typically suffer first from forgetfulness, then become increasingly confused, with severe memory loss. The illness often leads to the destruction of people's personalities, to the great distress of their families and friends. Most dementia patients need high levels of care throughout the day and night, and many can only be cared for in hospitals and specialist nursing homes.
Evidence suggests that physical changes in the ageing brain are of major importance.
These changes can now be studied with neuroimaging techniques. Better understanding of depression, and more effective treatments, would make an enormous contribution to the quality of life of older people. For more information about depression, click here to see our article in the news section. Click here to find out about the projects we are currently funding on dementia and mental health Mobility Loss of strength and power is experienced by all older people, even those who remain fit and healthy. Immobility, caused by illness or trauma such as falls and surgery and conditions such as arthritis, accelerates this loss, often creating a downward spiral to increased dependence.