Press Release

National Dementia Strategy Must Be 'Bold And Ambitious

18 June 2008

UK public rank mental decline higher than any other worry about ageing

In advance of the publication of the Government's consultation on the National Dementia Strategy tomorrow, Help the Aged has today called on the Government to be 'bold and ambitious'

Elizabeth McLennan, Policy Officer at Help the Aged said:

"Research conducted by Help the Aged has revealed that the UK public rank mental decline higher than any other worry about ageing - more important even than money worries. With the number of people suffering from the disease expected to rise by two thirds in the next 20 years, this comes as no surprise.

"Unless we get to grips with this condition, we will face not only spiralling economic costs but also rising levels of unmet need.

"It's vital that that the dementia strategy paves the way for much higher levels of research into the disease - tackling the causes of the condition is the first step. The Government must also ensure that those living with dementia are given the best possible care, both at home and in care homes.

"Every care home should have a recognised expert on dementia on their staff, and all staff must have training in how best to provide care for people with dementia. Care homes must also provide constructive activities to enable people who have dementia, to keep their brain's active, so potentially reducing decline in mental ability.

"Dementia robs victims of their identities as memory, speech and understanding are lost. Failure to fund much higher levels of research into the condition means condemning many more people to an older age affected by increasing mental incapacity."

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