Polar explorer contributes to dementia research as part of latest solo expedition

The wilds of Antarctica might seem an unlikely place to conduct research into dementia. But academics from Plymouth University are hoping the physical and mental challenges faced by polar explorer Antony Jinman could prove a valuable tool in their work with the condition.

Antony, the University’s own explorer-in-residence, will be following in the footsteps of another Plymothian, Captain Robert Falcon Scott, when he sets out later this month on a 730-mile solo expedition to the Geographic South Pole.

During his 60-day trek, he will communicate regularly with Plymouth’s pioneering dementia researchers, taking parts in tests to gauge how his exertion and surroundings are impacting on his memory and mental state.

Ian Sherriff, the University’s Academic Partnerships Lead for Dementia and one of the Prime Minister’s National Dementia Champions, said: “Being out on the ice for 60 days is a huge challenge, and it is bound to have an impact on Antony mentally. It may seem far removed from the conditions faced on a daily by people with dementia, but the feelings of isolation and loneliness are probably more similar than you might think. Innovative research is key in tackling this terrible condition, and helping us to support and care for people with dementia and their families.”

The tests have been developed by Dr Stephen Pearson, a Clinical Psychologist and member of the University’s Dementia Network, who is providing Antony with an innovative cognitive software application to use during the expedition.

Antony will receive a civic send-off for the expedition on Wednesday 13 November, and will then use high-tech aerial drones to capture images of himself on the ice and a mini iPad to update people back home on his progress.

He will also keep in touch with children in 200 schools across the South West, who will have full access to the expedition’s team of scientists, nutritionists and health and fitness professionals and will be able to interact with Antony and find out about the major challenges he is facing.

During the expedition, he will also work with composer Dr Alexis Kirke, from the University’s Interdisciplinary Centre for Computer Music Research, to create several pieces of music inspired by his moods during the course of the expedition.

Antony, who runs the Plymouth-based organisation Education through Expeditions (ETE), said: “Being a polar explorer gives you a lot of time to think and an expedition like this is as much about mental preparation as it is about physical preparation. It’s great to think that this expedition will not only contribute to the education of young people but will also potentially be helping people of all ages.”