Kevin Whately investigates dementia for ITV's Tonight

Published 23 March 2009

Best known as television detective Lewis, actor Kevin Whately has spent the last month investigating a real life scandal – the state of dementia care in the UK.

His findings will be revealed in an ITV1 Tonight special. (Monday 23 March, ITV 1, 8pm)

Alzheimer's Society Ambassador, Kevin uncovers the huge variation in dementia care and the struggle for people to access drug treatments. During the programme, Kevin reports on an Alzheimer's Society Singing for the Brain group, using music therapy to help people living with dementia and meets an Alzheimer's Society registered reminiscence therapist who helps people in care homes access long term memories.

Kevin Whately, Alzheimer's Society Ambassador and guest presenter on ITV1's Tonight, says,

'I agreed to film a programme for Tonight after witnessing my mother's heartbreaking decline from Alzheimer's disease - a devastating condition. As a family we have had to fight to get the best possible care for our mother to ensure she has support from properly trained care staff. As a son and as an Alzheimer's Society Ambassador, I felt it was vital to campaign to improve dementia care for every family and those who can't speak out. I hope the Tonight programme will go someway to bring dementia out of the shadows.'

Neil Hunt, Chief Executive of Alzheimer's Society, says,

'One in three people over 65 will die with dementia so it is vital that we improve the care that people receive. I hope that Tonight's programme will help to erode the stigma that surrounds the condition.'