Why Clinical Trials Matter – and Why More People Should Know About Them

We recently came across an eye-opening article from Alzheimer’s Research UK that explored an important (and often overlooked) question:

What’s it actually like to take part in a dementia clinical trial?

For Marion, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at the age of 69, the answer has been both personal and hopeful. After being told there were medications to help with symptoms, but nothing to slow the disease itself… Marion and her husband Geoff began researching clinical trials.

They’ve since taken part in three different drug trials, with Geoff supporting Marion as her study partner every step of the way. They’ve never missed an appointment.

Why? Because, in their words, “Even if it doesn’t help me, it might help someone else.”

That kind of selfless thinking is the quiet engine behind most progress in dementia research.

What does the clinical trial process involve?

It starts with a meeting with the Principal Investigator—the lead scientist in charge of the study. From there, participants undergo a series of assessments to ensure the treatment is safe and potentially effective.

And while each study varies, there are several clear benefits for participants:

• A deeper understanding of your diagnosis

• Regular contact with dementia experts

• Ongoing health check-ups

• Insights into risk factors and prevention

• The chance to help future generations

For Marion and Geoff, being part of research gave them something else too: a sense of purpose. A feeling that they were helping to build a better future, not just for themselves, but for others walking the same road.

But here’s the shocking part…

Despite all this, only 1% of people who are eligible to take part in dementia clinical trials actually do.

That number needs to change.

If we want to move towards a world where dementia no longer carries the same fear and heartbreak, we need more people like Marion. More people are willing to get involved in research, not just for themselves, but for everyone still to come.

If you’re interested in learning more about taking part in a dementia clinical trial, visit Join Dementia Research, a national service that connects volunteers with relevant studies near them.

Let’s keep pushing forward. Together, we can turn hope into real change.