Clarity in Confusion: Dementia Prevention Techniques

Anne Pidduck
Lecturer, David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science
University of Waterloo

February 14, 2007
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Davis Centre 1304, University of Waterloo

Note: There is no recording of this presentation. A copy of the presentation slides is available.
See: Research Seminars Archive 2006-2007

Abstract
There are an estimated 24 million people with dementia worldwide. This figure is expected to grow to 81 million by 2040 with an aging population. More than 50% of these dementia cases are related to Alzheimer’s disease. And, at over $100 billion per year, Alzheimer’s disease is currently the third most costly disease in the United States after heart disease and cancer.

Contrary to mainstream practice, our research shows that there may be techniques to prevent Alzheimer’s dementia. Most current Alzheimer dementia research focuses on slowing the progress of the dementia. WHY NOT prevent the dementia before it starts? Whether the cause is genetic, environmental or other, there is increasing evidence that mental exercise, physical activity and medical intervention may prevent the onset of dementia. In this seminar, we will provide a review of proven prevention techniques and offer a framework for a related computer-based health support system.

About the Speaker
Anne Banks Pidduck is a faculty member in the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science, Faculty of Mathematics, at the University of Waterloo. Her research and teaching interests are information systems management, software engineering, and electronic business, with particular interest in the interactions among information systems, businesses and people. Research papers encompass software quality, IT staffing and retention, agents in electronic commerce and partner selection for strategic alliances. Anne’s business experience is in management consulting, information systems management, healthcare and engineering. Local technology projects with KPMG Management Consulting included systems strategy, executive information systems and business process re-engineering.

Anne has PhD and Master of Applied Science degrees in Management Sciences (Information Systems, Technology Management) and a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Waterloo. She is also a registered Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) in Ontario. Anne is President of the Canadian Federation of University Women, Kitchener-Waterloo, and a past Board Member of Project Read and the Waterloo Public Library.