Optimising Exercise Prescription For Brain Health In Older Adults At Risk Of Dementia
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$594,123.00
Summary
To reduce dementia burdens in the community, cost effective and targeted early regenerative strategies are critical. Engaging in frequent aerobic exercise is one strategy that can delay the onset and slow the progression of dementia. However, prescription is limited by an incomplete understanding of how exercise positively influences brain health. Here I will investigate the influence of current exercise levels, intensity and exercise environment on brain health in adults at risk of dementia.
Stand Up To Dementia: Reducing Prolonged Sitting To Improve Cognitive Function In Older Adults
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$603,901.00
Summary
Australia has an ageing population, resulting in more people being diagnosed with dementia. Prolonged sitting - (a behaviour that is very common amongst older adults) may increase the risk of cognitive decline and thus developing dementia. This study aims to further explore the relationship of sitting with dementia and cognitive function by using objective measures of sitting and also to develop programs and resources to reduce prolonged sitting which are informed by consumers.
An Investigation Into The Neural Substrates Of Cognitive Deficits In Mild Cognitive Impairment, And The Mechanisms Of Action Of A Novel Treatment
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$574,644.00
Summary
Furthering our understanding of the brain mechanisms that underlie the deficits in memory, executive function, and language that occur with Mild Cognitive Impairment is vital for conceptualising the underlying disease processes, and for the development of targeted treatments. Hence, this project will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the brain’s electrical and metabolic responses during specialised cognitive tasks, whilst simultaneously investigating a possible treatment.
Cross-comparison, Validation And Performance Of Computerised Neuropsychological Assessment Devices In The Evaluation Of Mild Cognitive Impairment And Dementia
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$700,482.00
Summary
With an ageing population and associated increase in dementia there will be increased demand for neuropsychological assessment, with insufficient trained personnel and resources to meet this demand. Computerised tests offer excellent opportunities for large scale implementation of cognitive screening and monitoring of older adults. This is the first study to systematically evaluate and compare several popular computerised neuropsychological assessment devices in elders with and without dementia.
Improving Quality Of Care For People With Dementia In The Acute Care Setting
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,859,855.00
Summary
People with dementia are often undetected in hospital. This can result in problems which impact their long-term health and wellbeing. An electronic nursing assessment system for people admitted to hospital which reduces nursing admission documentation time, increases identification of patients with cognitive impairment and risk of delirium on admission, supports care planning and increases time for direct clinical care will improve the quality of care for patients with dementia in hospital.
Ageing And Dementia In Aboriginal Australians: Promoting Vitality, Identifying Decline And Supporting Communities
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$603,411.00
Summary
Dementia is a growing concern and burden on communities for Aboriginal Australians. This fellowship will develop effective, culturally appropriate, and accessible strategies to promote healthy brain ageing and prevent dementia in Aboriginal communities. It will also investigate better ways to assess memory and thinking in this population, in order to identify changes as early as possible for enhanced dementia research and treatment prospects.
Cognition-oriented Treatments For Older Adults On The Spectrum From Cognitive Health To Dementia: Improving Methodologies And Outcomes
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$716,620.00
Summary
Older adults, with and without memory problems, frequently seek ‘brain stimulating’ activities to reduce their dementia risk. Many such activities are available, but the evidence behind them is not clear and more research is needed to improve our understanding of these treatments. The proposed research programme aims to support older adults interested in these types of activities in their efforts to remain cognitively healthy and functionally independent irrespective of age and clinical status
Implications Of Retinal Neurodegeneration In Alzheimer's Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$602,213.00
Summary
Recent research has shown that “early signs” of Alzheimer ’s disease (AD) can be detected in the eyes. My research focus is to determine which particular changes in the retina are associated with AD. I will also investigate if blocking the production of beta amyloids (proteins produced in AD) in the eye will indeed help reduce their load in the brain and hence delay the onset of AD. Results from this research maybe used for early diagnosis and future medicinal studies that target the eye in AD.
Improving Mental Health And Social Participation Outcomes In Older Adults With Depression And Anxiety
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$791,581.00
Summary
This study will evaluate a comprehensive treatment program for older adults who are suffering depression and anxiety. We expect that this new treatment program will be more powerful than standard cognitive behavioural therapy. Through this treatment we will increase social participation and quality of life and reduce depression and anxiety in older Australians.