Dementia Awareness urges us to 'Remember the person.'
Over 50s and women most worried
The poll also found that those aged 55 or over are the most worried (66%) but dementia is even worrying over half of those aged between 18-24 (61%). Additionally women are much more concerned about dementia than men with 70 per cent worrying about the condition in some way in comparison to 56 per cent of men.
'Biggest challenge'
Jeremy Hughes, Chief Executive of Alzheimer’s Society, said:
‘Dementia is the biggest challenge facing the UK today so it’s not surprising that people are so worried. There is currently no cure and people aren’t getting the care they deserve. However we know that with the right support people can live well with the condition for a number of years.
This Dementia Awareness Week™ we need to stop worrying and start understanding dementia. Whether you have five minutes or half an hour please take some time to learn about dementia. Only through knowing more will we ensure the people with the condition are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.’
Saga support
Dementia Awareness Week™ is being held in partnership with Saga Homecare. Saga Homecare, which is part of the larger Saga group, provides care at home for people who want to maintain their independence and stay in their own homes.
John Ivers, Chief Executive of Saga Homecare said:
‘We are delighted to be partnering with Alzheimer’s Society in raising awareness of dementia. Saga Homecare has extensive experience of providing ongoing support to people with this condition and we are harnessing our resources to help Alzheimer’s Society make an impact with this worthwhile campaign.’
This Dementia Awareness Week™ , Alzheimer’s Society is encouraging people to ‘remember the person’ by looking beyond someone’s diagnosis and engaging with them. The charity has produced five things you should know about dementia to help people learn that little bit more – key lessons include dementia is not a natural part of ageing and it’s possible to live well with dementia.
Key findings
• 24 per cent of people said they are not worried about dementia at all
• 23 per cent of people believe dementia is a result of old age
• 19 per cent of people believe there is nothing you can do to reduce your risk
• Only 18 per cent of people realise dementia is a terminal illness
• 21 per cent of people think they have a good knowledge of dementia
• Only 6 per cent of people have a plan in place if a family member were to develop dementia. This includes only 7 per cent of people aged 55 and over
• All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 4276 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 13th - 16th April 2012. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all UK adults (aged 18+)
• Dementia Awareness Week 2012 is sponsored by Saga Homecare. Together Alzheimer’s Society and Saga Homecare hope to maximise awareness and understanding of dementia across the UK
Saga Homecare