Dementia and Parkinson's research

Up to 40% of people with Parkinson's have some form of dementia and we are currently funding a study to understand the best treatments for the condition.

Earlier this week, the Ministerial Advisory Group for Dementia Research (MAGDR) produced a report looking to identify ways in which we can improve dementia research in the UK. Our chief executive Steve Ford and our research director Kieran Breen were part of this group.

The group recognised that funders and researchers need to work more closely together to share experience.

Another recommendation was to get people with dementia and their carers involved in research, including setting up registers of people who want to take part in clinical trials, getting people's input on proposed studies, and also encouraging people to promote the research.

Our new Research Support Network is one way in which people affected by Parkinson's can do just that.

Also crucial is the development of the next generation of researchers. We already fund career development awards and postgraduate studentships to ensure that we provide every opportunity to nurture future talent. However, although the report identifies some really key areas for research development, there will be very little additional money available to fund these.

So it will be left to charities such as Parkinson's UK to continue to fund research into neurodegenerative conditions for the foreseeable future.

If you're interested in Parkinson's research, why not join our new Research Support Network? To find out more contact Emily Hughes, our Research Support Network Manager, on rsn@parkinsons.org.uk or 020 7963 9376.

Or take a look at other ways to get involved in our research.