Maladies of the mind

From the Iron Lady to Terry Pratchett, age-related dementia is increasingly reported in the media. Most adults have known one, and often many, sufferers. We are told that dementia will grow into the great healthcare epidemic of the next 100 years, impacting the lives of millions and bringing huge financial implications. So what goes awry in the human brain to cause dementia? Andy will give us a feel for what appears to cause all the trouble, and also how science has sought to tackle this.

Although there are some limited treatments, there is currently no cure for the different forms of Dementia. Science has played a crucial role in helping to build an understanding of the causes of the illness, but if we are to understand how to care for patients, we also need to understand the impact of Dementia on the mind and self. Richard will discuss why Dementia is much more than an illness.

‘I am still here’ is an interactive art installation aiming to communicate a better understanding of the symptoms of dementia. This collaboration between artists, scientists and those directly affected sets challenges that confront the audience with numerous symptoms associated with dementia. Integrating sensory and multimedia components, playful elements also bring humorous moments to an otherwise intense experience. We look forward to presenting the first taster session at Pint of Science.