Challenging common myths about research

There are already enough volunteers

Research cannot take place without vital volunteers and we need you. Research if for everyone, people with and without dementia and those that care and support those with a diagnosis. 

I don’t live near a university or hospital so I can’t take part 

You can still take part in lots of different research projects if you don't live near a research centre. Volunteers are sometimes willing to travel, but there are also many research studies you can do from the comfort of your own home – online or over the phone.

My doctor will tell me about any research studies that could help me

Doctors don't necessarily know about research studies that are happening. The best place to learn about studies that are looking for participants is the Join Dementia Research website.

I won’t be able to stop once I’ve started

Consenting to take part in a research study is not legally binding. Volunteers have the right to leave any study at any point and you do not have to give a reason why.

I won’t be able to participate because I have another medical condition

Having a disease other than dementia doesn't always mean you can't take part. General health may be recorded in case it may make a difference to the results. Researchers are also looking to understand how different conditions interact with dementia or alter carers experiences.

It costs too much to participate in research

All research studies are different. Some may reimburse associated travel costs or provide compensation to participants. Other studies require only your time to take a phone call or complete a task or survey online.

I’ll be given a drug we know nothing about

Drugs in trials have already been through rigorous testing in the lab, and the researchers will already know a lot about their effects. When first testing them in people, researchers increase the dose slowly and monitor participants closely for side effects to make sure they’re safe.

I might only get the placebo and miss out on the real thing

Many trials test new drugs against current ones, so no one misses out. Where there is no current treatment, successful trials often run an extension phase. This is so that people in the placebo group can be offered the active drug for a period after the end of the trial so they can benefit too.

I will be treated like a lab animal

Research studies are strictly regulated to ensure that participants are safe and cared for. In the majority of cases, participants find they received excellent care and really enjoyed the experience.