The Alzheimer Society of Ireland purchases a machine known as The Mistral to assist research into ageing and memory loss.
The Mistral was acquired for use at St James' Hospital in Dublin and should play a key role in the early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease in patients. The machine cost £25,000.
Alzheimer’s disease generally affects people over 65. Patients firstly experience memory blocks and subsequently lose control of their bodies.
The Mistral will boost ongoing research into aging and memory loss at St James’.
Dr Denis O’Mahony explains the device works by recording brainwaves. The monitoring of brain activity in patients can be compared to normal older people and will be a useful in diagnostic testing.
The United States has invested heavily into research about Alzheimer's disease, spending $7.5 million last year, but still no cause or cure has been found.
Chairman of the Alzheimer Society of Ireland Michael Coote believes there is little chance of finding a treatment for the disease until a cause has been found.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 28 August 1991. The reporter is Teresa Mannion.
