For this year’s Alzheimer’s Awareness Day, Chamber was joined by policymakers and innovators to discuss the hope for a dementia-friendly world.
Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are global health challenges that affect millions of lives. For the 2023 Alzheimer’s Awareness Day, a panel of experts gathered to discuss what progress can be made for future patients.
This year’s insightful discussion delved into the impact of Alzheimer’s and Dementia, recent advances in research and innovation, and the critical role of policymakers in addressing these challenges. The panel comprised Professor Lynne Corner, Director VOICE and COO of the UK’s National Innovation Centre for Aging, Debbie Abrahams, Member of Parliament for Oldham East and Saddleworth and Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Dementia, Mark McDonald, Associate Director for Advocacy and System Change at Alzheimer’s Society, and Carolina Rubel, Senior Director at IQVIA, specialising in Alzheimer’s trials.
Understanding Alzheimer’s and dementia
With over a million people in the UK living with dementia, and projections indicating a significant rise in cases, the discussion emphasised the urgency of addressing this issue. According to statistics, one person develops dementia every three minutes. However, the panellists stressed that raising awareness and taking proactive measures can significantly impact the lives of those affected by dementia.
Debbie Abrahams, who Co-Chairs the All-party Parliamentary Group on Dementia, emphasised the importance of early diagnosis and support for individuals and their families. Policymakers play a crucial role in advocating for dementia research and ensuring that promises, such as doubling research funding, are fulfilled. Abrahams underscored the need for an all-encompassing approach that involves healthcare teams, local agencies, and the voluntary sector to provide the necessary support.
“As an APPG, we try to engage with people who are affected by Dementia. The importance of early diagnosis is the pathway to earlier treatment to delay the onset of other conditions.”
Debbie Abhrahams MP
Transforming Social Care
Mark McDonald of Alzheimer’s Society shed light on the pressing issues within the social care system. He highlighted the critical role of unpaid carers and the need for recognising their contributions. He stressed that investment in the care workforce is vital to provide quality care and reduce the pressure on acute healthcare services. The need for a cap on the cost of care and a comprehensive social care workforce plan was also emphasised.
“Brining the voice of lived experience to the table and they want to bring the voice of dementia patients to the doors of decision makers.”
Mark MacDonald
Dementia-friendly communities were recognised as vital in reducing stigma and creating supportive environments for those affected by dementia. The panel encouraged greater community engagement and inclusivity as part of the solution.
Innovations and Technology
Carolina Ruble, a Senior Director at global human data company, IQVIA, discussed the potential of technology and innovation in dementia care. She highlighted the importance of developing early and affordable biomarkers, access to disease-modifying drugs, and free public healthcare. Technology, including smartphones and innovative healthcare solutions, can play a pivotal role in supporting patients and their caregivers.
“In rural areas you may have fragile infrastructures where you don’t have enough specialists to treat patients and that prevents an early diagnosis. We need some diagnostic tools and access to these new disease modifying drugs.”
Carolina Ruble
The panel acknowledged the global impact of dementia and the need for international collaboration. They praised initiatives that focus on developing fragile infrastructures, improving healthcare worker training, and expanding clinical trials to regions with limited resources. They also applauded former UK Prime Minister David Cameron’s role in putting dementia on the international stage and called for continued global cooperation.
Prevention and Awareness
Prevention was a key theme, with the panellists stressing the importance of a healthy lifestyle. They emphasised the role of awareness campaigns in dispelling misconceptions and encouraging early diagnosis. Early intervention and support, combined with lifestyle changes, can significantly improve the lives of individuals living with dementia.
A Call to Action
The discussion ended with a call to action for policymakers, innovators, and communities to work together to address the challenges posed by Alzheimer’s and dementia. The need for continued research, funding, and collaboration on a global scale was underscored.
The discussion served as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done to support those affected by dementia. It also highlighted the hope and potential for positive change through research, innovation, and collaborative efforts on a global scale. By focusing on prevention, awareness, and support, we can create a world that is more compassionate, inclusive, and dementia friendly.
Watch the full video here: