Report from the Ministerial Summit on Dementia Research

Author: International Longevity Centre UK
Date: 05 November 2009

The Ministerial Summit on Dementia Research was attended by researchers, service providers and – importantly – people living with dementia and their carers. Their views have been distilled into this Report and will make a vital contribution to shaping the future of dementia research.

The discussions held at the Summit have helped to identify the priority areas for future research and some of the main challenges faced. Central amongst these is the need to improve public awareness of, and support for, dementia research in order to increase participation in research studies and encourage brain donation. Further ways of improving the dissemination of research and the ‘translation’ of its findings into improved treatment and care must also be sought.

A new Ministerial Group on Dementia Research will be established, chaired by Phil Hope, Care Services Minister, to ensure momentum for action from the Dementia Summit is maintained. A central focus will be on ways to harness available resources more effectively to increase the volume, quality and impact of dementia research.