In 2015, there were an estimated 46.8 million people worldwide living with dementia, and it has been predicted that number will almost double every 20 years, reaching 74.7 million in 2030 and 131.5 million in 2050. It is further believed that much of this increase will take place in developing countries.[1]
The ever-increasing number of dementia cases is prompting leading researchers and scientists to share their discoveries that can help us better understand dementia, and thus develop new treatments that will allow patients to live with greater independence and improved quality of life as they continue to age.
In an effort to support this information sharing, the Canadian Centre for Aging and Brain Health Innovation (CC-ABHI) recently sponsored the 27th annual Rotman Research Institute (RRI) Conference that took place from March 20-22, 2017. This event presented cutting-edge research on basic neural mechanisms and followed a broad theme that discussed healthy and impaired brain function across the lifespan, while also featuring research on disorders such as epilepsy, amnesia, and Alzheimer’s disease, all of which affect the well-being of millions of people worldwide. By providing the opportunity for researchers with basic and translational scientific expertise to discuss and share their research programs’ latest findings, the RRI Conference was able to create a forum that may ultimately enhance clinical care for patients in the future.
Participants came away from the conference with a better understanding of how brain dynamics change as a function of age and disease; understanding of the innovative role of neuroimaging and its emerging clinical applications; identified lifestyle factors that modify brain dynamics and influence healthy brain aging; and were able to evaluate the linkages between brain dynamics and brain health interventions.
Through these types of sponsorship initiatives, CC-ABHI is supporting the dissemination of forward-thinking and innovative research discoveries that are positioned to impact the way adults age in the future – ideally with a greater level of independence and quality of life. We are proud sponsors of events such as these and look forward to a number of upcoming events in early April to further establish our role in accelerating innovations in the aging and brain health sectors.
To learn more about programs like the RRI conference be sure to follow us on Twitter: @CABHI_
[1] https://www.alz.co.uk/research/statistics
