Understanding visual hallucinations using brain scans
Researchers at Newcastle University are investigating what causes visual hallucinations in people with dementia with Lewy bodies, Parkinson’s Dementia and Parkinson’s.
The researchers want to see if brain signals are different for people who experience hallucinations.
16 people with dementia with Lewy bodies, Parkinson’s Dementia or Parkinson’s who are:
• over 60 years old
• currently experiencing visual hallucinations
• can be accompanied by a family member or carer
16 people without dementia with Lewy bodies, Parkinson’s Dementia or Parkinson’s who are:
• over 60 years old
Unfortunately, those receiving Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) or using other active medical implanted devices, such as a pacemaker, are unable to take part.
Taking part in 3 research visits:
The first visit will be at your home for 2 to 3 hours. This will involve completing questionnaires and assessments.
The second visit will be at Newcastle University for between 1 to 2 hours. Researchers will perform an electroencephalography (EEG) to measure electrical activity in your brain and take a blood sample.
The third visit will be at the Edinburgh Imaging Facility for 2 to 3 hours. The visit will involve having a cannula inserted into a vein to administer a special dye before having an MRI brain scan. This allows researchers to see which areas of the brain are active at different times.
All travel will be organised or reimbursed.
For more information, please read:
• The participant information sheet for people with dementia with Lewy bodies, Parkinson’s Dementia and Parkinson’s
• The participant information sheet for people without these conditions
Interested in taking part?
Please contact Kat da Silva Morgan by email at [email protected] or phone on 0191 2082198.
The deadline for taking part in this research is 31 December 2025.
The Lewy Body Society
Newcastle University
Biomedical Research Building, Campus for Ageing and Vitality
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE4 5PL
United Kingdom