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Spatial Navigation Assessment, Validation and Implementation (SNAVI)

Flinders University

It currently takes an average of 2.8 years for a diagnosis of dementia after symptoms first begin. This delay prevents access to early interventions and support strategies which have the potential to slow the progression of dementia and improve quality of life. 

Tests of spatial navigation (how we navigate spaces and our surroundings) are sensitive to early brain changes seen in Alzheimer's disease and may provide a new solution for the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, meaning people can be diagnosed earlier and access interventions sooner. However, before they can be used in clinical practice, they first need to be evaluated through research studies. This is the goal of the SNAVI project. 

This project has been approved by the Southern Adelaide Clinical Human Ethics Committee (HRE00337)

Participation

If you meet the following criteria, you may be eligible to participate in this study; 

  • have a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment or mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease 
  • aged 50 years or older
  • fluent in the English language
  • have a study partner who can attend two assessment visits

Participant duration

4 hours (1 x 3 hour visit, 1 x 1 hour visit)


Available to people living in

SA


Study begins

Monday, 2 February 2026


Study ends

Sunday, 31 May 2026

Contact

To find out more about this study, contact:

Alexandra Wade

Flinders University

alexandra.wade@flinders.edu.au

(08) 7421 9490

Adelaide University Clinical Trials Facility, Frome Road, Adelaide; Jones Radiology, SAHMRI, North Terrace, Adelaide , SA

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Last updated
18 February 2026