There has been virtually no progress in developing new interventions to manage the symptoms of dementia over the last 20 years. This has forced a fundamental re-think of our scientific, clinical and epidemiological approach to the condition, culminating in massive, coordinated global initiatives targeting the prevention of dementia and maintenance of brain health.

During his inaugural lecture, Professor Ritchie will provide a brief historical perspective of dementia that will form the foundation for a very optimistic vision of the near future (relatively speaking) of how we can rid the world of dementia.

Professor Ritchie is Chair of Psychiatry of Ageing and Director of the Centre for Dementia Prevention.