As we mark Alzheimer’s Awareness Month this September, we want to thank the involvement and contribution of people living with dementia and their carers to research. The Australian Dementia Network recognise the importance of genuine partnerships and involvement of members directly impacted by dementia in research. It is their stories, lived experience and compassion that inspire researchers every day. We recognise that people with dementia and their carers give up their time to be involved in research and this gift is much appreciated.

ADNeT Director Professor Chris Rowe acknowledges that, “without research volunteers, we cannot advance dementia science”. The ADNeT volunteer portal is a clear example of how imperative volunteers are to dementia research. Over 3,600 subjects are enrolled in the volunteer portal and ready to contribute to dementia research trials. We thank everyone who has volunteered to be part of the ADNeT Screening and Trials initiative.

The ADNeT Registry is also committed to the involvement of people with lived experience of dementia and mild cognitive impairment, their carers and families. To date, more than 50 Dementia Advocates have made valuable contributions to the ADNeT Registry.