The scourge of dementia runs deep in Lorna Clement's family. Of the eleven children her dear parents raised, four live (or have passed away) with complications of the disease. Her mother also died of Alzheimer's disease, bringing the family total to five. This is the mystery of dementia - One family, with two very different ageing outcomes. NeuRA's Dr Karen Mather is researching exceptional longevity. Working with the participants from the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing, she is examining individuals who have escaped or delayed the onset of age-related decline and disease, including Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. By studying these people Dr Mather wants to find the genetic and epigenetic factors that can lead to healthy ageing. Epigenetic factors regulate how much a gene is turned on or off and can be influenced by environmental factors, such as smoking and what we eat. You are invited to read more about Lorna's story and Dr Mather's work, by clicking 'Read the full story' below. Please support dementia research at NeuRA Will you consider a gift today to help Dr Mather unlock the secrets of healthy ageing and reduce the risk of dementia? Research into ageing and dementia at NeuRA will arm doctors and other medical professionals with the tools they need to help prevent dementia in our communities. Thank you for your support.