Screening for dementia in the community

CANTAB Mobile,which runs on an iPad, includes a learning and memory test as part of a cognitive trial. Researchers are using these tests in GP settings to detect early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. From the data collected, researchers will determine if this kind of testing in a primary care setting can detect patients earlier, before the disease progresses, allowing doctors to act earlier and put a treatment plan in place. Early therapeutic interventions are beneficial as they allow patients to stay in their homes for longer and delay institutionalised care. They also enhance quality of life for people with dementia and their carers.