We often have studies specifically for participants with a dementia diagnosis and a few recent ones have just opened up.

The studies include using a phone app, physical and memory tests and are supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).

Vascular mEchanisms in, Stroke, dePression, dementiA, and deliRum: The VESPAR project

Researchers are seeking 140 people aged 65 and over in the Leicester region to take 2 tests of the blood flow in their brain. This includes 40 healthy participants and up to 100 with a diagnosis of stroke, dementia, delirium, or depression. One test will measure the brain at rest, and the other will be taken while the participant is undertaking activities to stimulate the brain, such as counting backwards. 

This is part of a wider study, led by the University of Leicester, aiming to compare how blood flow in the brain differs between people with depression, dementia, delirium and stroke. It is hoped that this information will help improve our knowledge and understanding of these conditions and pave the way for new treatments.

The test involves a visit to Leicester Royal Infirmary where participants will wear a plastic headframe with two ultrasound probes positioned on either side of the head, a headband with sensors in, a blood pressure monitor on the finger, small plastic tubes in the nose to measure breathing, and a heart monitor.

Pilot trial of a new digital monitoring tool for behavioural symptoms of dementia

This trial, led by the University of Strathclyde, will be recruiting 15 people in the Glasgow area with a formal diagnosis of dementia, along with their carers, to test a new mobile phone app to monitor the changes of behaviour in people with the condition.

These behavioural changes can be a sign of a person with dementia’s health worsening. It is hoped the app will help carers log these behaviours more effectively, so they can spot them earlier, understand them better and seek the appropriate treatment or care. 

Participants will attend an in-person appointment with their carer, where they will undergo neuropsychological assessment tests to assess attention, language and memory. The carer is then instructed on the use of the app and will use this to complete a short online questionnaire daily for 1 month. An interview will also be used at the end of the study to collect feedback on the app.

To find out if you are eligible to join these or other dementia studies, sign in to your Join Dementia Research account or, if you are not already registered, sign up today.