At least half a million UK residents have Alzheimer’s, with the number of new cases increasing rapidly year on year; therefore, research that helps to provide possible treatments to delay, avoid or overcome this devastating condition is both vital and very welcome.
Alzheimer’s and sleep patterns
Unusual sleep patterns are a commonly-reported problem for those with Alzheimer’s and cover the entire spectrum, from inability to sleep at night to too much daytime napping. As there seems to be a connection between sleep and this type of dementia, further research into the relationship between sleep and Alzheimer’s is both important and meaningful to those living with the condition either directly or indirectly.
Study of insomnia and Alzheimer’s
To explore and gain further scientific knowledge on possible treatments for insomnia amongst those living with Alzheimer’s, experts from two NHS Foundation Trusts – South Tees and Tees, Esk & Wear Valleys – are working together. Their joint clinical research study explores the effects of a possible new medical intervention to treat those suffering from both conditions.
Details of the study
Those who take part will be compensated for their time and eligible to claim expenses during this nine-week study, which involves wearing a small device on their wrist, attending appointments – accompanied by a study partner of their own choosing – with the clinical team as necessary, and three stays overnight at James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough.
The importance of paid research studies
Paid research studies organised by companies such as http://www.trials4us.co.uk/ play an invaluable role in furthering knowledge and treatment for many conditions – a fact the lead doctor in this study, Dr Tolu Olusoga, is citing when recruiting for this study. The team is hoping that people aged between 50 and 90 who have been diagnosed with mild or moderate Alzheimer’s disease and insomnia will participate, helping to contribute to medical understanding on how to best treat related conditions such as this.
Research that furthers understanding and explores the connections between conditions is always welcome by those living with Alzheimer’s, their family and friends, and the medical and scientific community, which constantly strives to learn more and move forward in the quest to provide the best possible care to patients living with chronic disease and conditions for the rest of their lives.