StepUp for Dementia Research
StepUp for Dementia Research is a free online, postal and telephone service that connects people interested in dementia research with researchers conducting studies into dementia prevention, diagnosis, treatment, care and cure.
Anyone aged 18 and over – with or without dementia – can register their interest, which can take as little as five minutes. Based on volunteers’ characteristics such as age, location and diagnosis, they will be matched to any studies for which they may be eligible. There are currently more than 30 studies looking for participants.
One of the biggest challenges for dementia researchers is finding the right people to participate, because there is still a lot of stigma around dementia and people don’t feel comfortable talking about it. StepUp will improve recruitment into research studies, which has the potential to save millions of dollars and fast-track dementia research.
Dementia is the second leading cause of death in Australia. There is a growing body of evidence regarding lifestyle factors, depression and social isolation contributing to dementia. Further research is needed to better understand the relationship between dementia risk factors and the onset of dementia among Australian veterans.
Importantly, StepUp for Dementia Research will give the public, including veterans and carers, a voice and help them contribute to future dementia research. Ultimately, without research participants, research cannot take place.
Please sign up via https://www.stepupfordementiaresearch.org.au or call 1800 7837 123 for more information.
StepUp for Dementia Research is led by The University of Sydney team that is undertaking research for DVA on the protective factors of participating in the Community Nursing program.
