Why help – We desperately need your support
750,000 people were estimated to be suffering from dementia in the UK in 2006. (POST 2007)

The human brain:

  • comprises 2 percent of body mass;
  • takes 15 percent of heart output;
  • uses 20 percent of the oxygen in the body; and
  • requires 25 percent of the body's glucose production

The human cost of age related cognitive decline

Some 800,000 people in the UK, are currently diagnosed with severe cognitive decline. This figure is projected to double in the next 20 years.

Such age-related decline in mental functions may include some aspects of memory, executive functions, processing speed, and reasoning. All of these mental functions are important for carrying out everyday activities, living independently and leading a fulfilling life. Their loss can cause terrible distress to older people, their families and their carers.

As yet, scientists do not understand fully what causes mental deterioration and the onset of dementia.

Why act now?

Lorna Layward


Dr Lorna Layward is the Research Manager at Research into Ageing. Here she explains why the need for research into cognitive decline is so imperative.



Jan MacMillan


Jan MacMillan became a full time carer when her father developed Alzheimer’s disease. Here she explains the difficulties of looking after a loved one affected by age related mental decline.


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