There is much that can be done to delay or avoid the onset of dementia.  

For example, Dr George Razay at the LGH has shown that approximately 20 per cent of sufferers are in fact experiencing  hydrocephalus, which can be alleviated by the insertion of a shunt.

Research has also shown that mental and physical activity delays dementia onset.  Keeping reasonably fit, using your mind in such things as crossword puzzles and generally being active are all highly beneficial.

It could well be that the medical researchers, presently directing much research effort towards lessening brain impairment, could, in the future, find its research providing solutions to this major societal dilemma.

THE Examiner editorial (April 6) poses a very interesting and necessary question: “What plans is the state government developing to future-proof Tasmania against a repetition of the energy crisis we are now experiencing”.

I have heard no mention of any such plans, but without a workable strategy that takes account of changing weather patterns, a repeat of the crisis is inevitable.

Your editorial quite rightly favours renewable energy sources and urges the development of wind generation.

Wind is certainly a reliable and clean form of generation and every proposal deserves serious consideration. But so too is solar.

The state government may be hard-pressed to find the capital needed for a major solar generating plant, but if small-scale generation on every roof in Tasmania was utilised for power production, and combined with wind production, the vagaries of the weather could be largely overcome.

By introducing suitable incentives, and long-term contracts, every home owner could install solar panels.

The production from one home may not be great, but if spread over many thousands of homes, or commercial buildings, the combination would produce a considerable amount of energy.

In addition, if the panels are installed on private homes the capital would come from private investment with the only government cost being the incentive to encourage each private homeowner.

By having reliable sources of renewable energy, the lake storages could re-fill and the present hydro system could be used as a back-up for other forms of generation.  

Tasmania could be a leader in the development of renewable energy, but it requires vision and initiative from the state government.

AN interesting article in (The Examiner, April 22) regarding the upgrade of the Quadrant Mall.

I see that the owner of Hope and Me isn't worried about trade but as that shop has yet to be impeded by the action her attitude may change when people have about a foot of space to get to her business.

Another business has lost 70 per cent of their passing trade due to the work taking place.

There also seems to be an inordinate number of enormous planter pots due to be installed, so let's hope there is room for pedestrians.

I was also told that the pavers to be installed have been bought from Western Australia.

I hope this is a joke as surely they could be bought in Tasmania if not in Launceston.

Let's hope all the upheaval is worth it and that the tired old Brisbane Street Mall will be next in line for a much needed facelift.