We are a country of 4 million people with an aging population and just like other countries in the world we are challenged by a future where there will be increasing numbers of people who will be affected by Alzheimer's disease. The Alzheimer's New Zealand Charitable Trust was established in 2004 specifically to fund research which not only looks at the scientific basis of this tragic disease in order to develop new preventive and treatment strategies, but also to research and develop best practice for patient and family support to ensure care is provided in the best environment to give patients the highest quality of life. Research always enhances standards of care - top quality care and support of families and patients is enhanced where the quality of care is under constant review and critical analysis.A message from our Patron Professor Richard Faull