Alzheimer Scotland's Chief Executive, Henry Simmons responds to the SFA announcement about newly updated heading guidelines for all age groups from 6 to 17 year olds:
“Alzheimer Scotland fully supports the introduction of the SFA’s newly updated heading guidelines for all age groups from 6 to 17 years old. This is a very positive proactive measure. Our position has always been that an evidence based approach to policy and risk reduction within football is essential and we again welcome the high quality evidence gathered by the FIELD study, led by Dr Willie Stewart, as it has clearly influenced this decision and the development of the new guidelines.
“The new guidelines are a positive step in promoting good brain health and helping minimise long term risks of developing dementia, and we congratulate the SFA for its leadership and swift action. We hope the new guidelines will encourage children to keep playing football and enjoying other sports. We know that exercise is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of dementia and we would encourage everyone to enjoy sport of any kind as safely as possible.
“Alzheimer Scotland will continue to do all that we can to further support this vital area of dementia research and prevention. If you have any questions about dementia and of the local support and services available in your area call Alzheimer Scotland’s Freephone 24-Hour Freephone Dementia Helpline on 0808 808 3000.”