New Study Assesses Alzheimer's Quality of Life Issues

September 3rd, 2007 - Media Statement

A new project by West Australian researchers is seeking to understand how some key factors in dementia, such as forgetfulness, might impact the quality of life of people diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.

The project is being run by the WA Centre for Health and Ageing (WACHA), based at the Western Australian Institute for Medical Research (WAIMR).

It is being undertaken by clinical neuropsychologist and University of Western Australia PhD student Pascalle Bosboom and WACHA research director Professor Osvaldo Almeida.

By 2050, the number of Western Australians with dementia is projected to increase to over 79,000.

"Alzheimer's disease accounts for up to 70 per cent of all cases of dementia and, with our ageing population, the prevalence of it is on the rise, so research looking at how to manage the impact of the disease on patients' quality of life is very important," said Mrs Bosboom.

"This study will probe, for example, what the impact is of forgetfulness or word finding difficulty - common problems linked to Alzheimer's disease - on a person's quality of life.

"The hope is that, by enhancing our understanding of the factors that influence quality of life, we may be able to improve the long-term health outcomes of people with dementia."

Professor Almeida said, "Over the past few years, we have studied in detail the molecular mechanisms that contribute to the development of Alzheimer's disease, but have neglected to investigate the various factors that contribute to determine the quality of life of patients and their carers. This project aims to move this aspect of our current knowledge forwards."

People diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease aged over 65 who are living in the community and healthy volunteers aged over 65 with no obvious signs of memory problems are needed to assist with the study.

Volunteers will be asked to complete a few short questionnaires, as well as undergo some paper and pencil tests to assess their cognitive functions (like memory).

Those interested in taking part in the study should phone Pascalle Bosboom on 9224 3417 or Cheryl Ackoy on 9224 2855 for further information.

WACHA's research aims to improve the health of older people by investigating common conditions of later life including dementia, falls, depression, immobility and residential care.

For more information please contact:
Natalie Papadopoulos
Media Consultant for the WA Institute for Medical Research
Mobile: 0407 984 435
Office: (08) 9388 9280