General news
Alzheimer's Society and Bupa unite to improve lives of people with dementia
Published: 20 November 2009
Bupa and Alzheimer's Society have today officially marked their joint commitment to the shared goal of improving the quality of care for people living with dementia. Their partnership was marked by signing a memorandum of understanding
Free personal care for older people in their own home
Published: 18 November 2009
Alzheimer’s Society has today welcomed the recognition of people with dementia in the Queen’s speech and called for dementia to be a priority for all political parties.
Poor dementia care in hospitals costing lives and hundreds of millions
Published: 17 November 2009
People with dementia - who occupy a quarter of all hospital beds - are staying far longer in hospital than people without the condition who go in for the same treatment.
Review calls for action on dangerous use of antipsychotic drugs for dementia
Published: 12 November 2009
An independent review has found that an estimated 150,000 people with dementia in the UK are being inappropriately prescribed antipsychotic drugs and these are contributing to 1,800 deaths a year.
Alzheimer’s Society comment on Andrew Lansley’s speech about charging for care
Published: 22 October 2009
People over 65 could benefit from a 'home protection scheme' preventing them from being forced to sell their house to pay for residential care in old age according to Shadow Secretary Health Secretary
Relationships between dietary balance and Alzheimer's disease
Published: 21 October 2009
Prof Gandy and colleagues compared the effect of four different diets on brains in mice that are genetically altered so they develop changes in their brain which are like Alzheimer's disease in people
Angela Rippon and John Hughes announced as Alzheimer’s Society Ambassadors
Published: 14 October 2009
Alzheimer’s Society is pleased to announce that well-loved newsreader Angela Rippon and leading business man John Hughes have both been appointed Alzheimer's Society Ambassadors.
Alzheimer's Society comment on Department of Health survey into attitudes towards growing older
Published: 13 October 2009
A Department of Health survey has found that 86% of people are worried about getting old.
Alzheimer’s Society comment on the trial of personal health budgets
Published: 8 October 2009
20 sites across England have been selected to participate in a study to identify the benefits of Personal Budgets for health and the patient groups who will gain most from them.
77 per cent of nurses say people with dementia in hospital given dangerous drugs
Published: 8 October 2009
77% of nurses report that people with dementia in general hospital wards are being prescribed dangerous antipsychotic drugs.
Alzheimer’s Society comment on occurrence of drug errors in care homes
Published: 6 October 2009
Seven out of 10 care home residents have been subjected to medication errors according to research to be published in Quality and Safety in Health Care tomorrow (6 October, 2009).
Alzheimer’s Society comment on Nuffield Council on Bioethics report
Published: 1 October 2009
People with dementia, carers and doctors are not getting the support they need to deal with the ethical issues they face-a new report from the Nuffield Council on Bioethics reveals today (1 October).
Alzheimer’s Society comment on Gordon Brown’s ‘free personal home care’
Published: 30 September 2009
Older people with the 'highest needs' will be offered free personal home care, Gordon Brown announced today (29 September 2009).
Labour MPs show support for more investment into dementia research
Published: 28 September 2009
Eighty percent of Labour MPs believe the government should be spending more on dementia research, according to a new poll released today.
Financial capacity and the onset of dementia
Published: 22 September 2009
A study published in Neurology by researchers in the US has found that declining financial skills could be an early indicator of Alzheimer’s disease in people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
Alzheimer's Society comment on Alzheimer's Disease International's report on the prevalence of dementia worldwide
Published: 21 September 2009
More than 35 million people worldwide will have dementia in 2010 according a report released today (21 September 2009) from Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI).
Alzheimer's Society comment on Laing & Buisson Care of Elderly People UK Market Survey 2009
Published: 17 September 2009
Figures from Laing and Buisson’s newly released Care of Elderly People UK Market Survey 2009 have predicted that the number of care home places will start to grow, following a previous decline.
Alzheimer's Society and Bupa launch Dementia Champions Programme
Published: 16 September 2009
Alzheimer’s Society and Bupa have joined together to launch the first ever Dementia Champions programme in 130 Bupa care homes across the UK.
Alzheimer's Society calls for an end to complex care charging system
Published: 8 September 2009
A fifth of carers face difficulties in applying for benefits under the current 'complex and confusing' system according to The Public Accounts Committee.
Alzheimer's Society and BBC launch brain training trial with a 'Bang'
Published: 7 September 2009
Alzheimer’s Society has teamed up with the BBC’s Lab UK to launch Brain Test Britain, a unique trial that will seek an answer to the question: Does brain training really work?
Alzheimer's Society helps celebrate UK Older people's day on 1 October 2009
Published: 4 September 2009
The third annual UK's Older People's Day takes place this year on Thursday 1 October 2009 under the 'Full of Life' banner.
Alzheimer’s Society’s response to the General Medical Council’s ‘Tomorrow’s Doctors’ guidance
Published: 4 September 2009
The General Medical Council will this week publish its latest 'Tomorrow’s Doctors' guidance calling for a more 'hands on' approach to medical training.
Website developments
Published: 1 September 2009
It's now been over 18 months since we re-launched alzheimers.org.uk and the new site has been a great success.
Dementia and reminiscence on BBC Four's Woman's hour
Published: 13 August 2009
Reminiscence therapy is a powerful way of helping empower people with dementia by access long-term memories.
Alzheimer's Society comment on Green Paper for funding of Adult Social Care in England
Published: 15 July 2009
Health Secretary Andy Burnham has set out three new models of funding adult social care in England.
Roger McGough performs for people with dementia
Published: 8 July 2009
One of Britain’s best known poets, Roger McGough, has delivered a filmed reading of a new poem to be released exclusively on the Alzheimer’s Society website.
Alzheimer’s Society comment on Annual Survey of UK Local Authority Baseline Fee Rates 2009/10
Published: 22 June 2009
Community Care Market News has conducted an annual survey of local authority fee rates for nursing and residential care.
Social care workforce not ready to deliver dementia care
Published: 16 June 2009
An influential group of MPs and Peers are calling for all staff working in social care to receive dementia training appropriate to their role after a report published today (16 June).
Radio 4's Beyond Belief discusses the theological issues raised by Alzheimer's disease
Published: 15 June 2009
Dementia and Spirituality will be the topic up for discussion on today’s Radio 4’s Beyond Belief. Ernie Rea and his guests will discuss the theological issues raised by Alzheimer's disease.
Alzheimer's Society response to the publication of revised NICE guidance on Alzheimer's treatments
Published: 11 June 2009
Thousands of people with Alzheimer’s will continue to be denied access to the only drug treatments for the disease following the publication of revised guidance by NICE.
Alzheimer's Society comments on new Alzheimer's test
Published: 10 June 2009
A new self administered cognitive screening test for detecting Alzheimer’s disease has been developed by researchers at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, according to a study in bmj.com
Show your support for Carers Week 2009
Published: 8 June 2009
There are currently six million carers in the UK and Carers Week 2009 aims to highlight their incredible contribution and achievements.
Make a difference, become a volunteer
Published: 4 June 2009
Volunteers make a vital contribution at every level of the Society. We value their dedication and enthusiasm in supporting people affected by dementia.
Treatment lottery for people with dementia as over-prescribing of dangerous antipsychotics continues
Published: 4 June 2009
People with dementia in the UK face a postcode lottery when trying to access treatment and twenty percent of people who receive anti-dementia drugs are also prescribed dangerous antipsychotic drugs.
Alzheimer's Society condemns daylight robbery and drugging of older people
Published: 2 June 2009
Older people in Britain are being drugged and robbed when they need care, according to leading dementia charity, Alzheimer’s Society.
Male retirement age and dementia
Published: 18 May 2009
British scientists have found a significant link between later retirement age and later onset of dementia in men.
Care Quality Commission survey reveals malnutrition in hospitals
Published: 14 May 2009
Around one in five hospital patients who have trouble feeding themselves do not get help with meals, according to the survey released on 13 May by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
Alzheimer's Society welcomes new Vice President and Ambassador
Published: 11 May 2009
We are pleased to welcome David Blunkett MP as a Vice-President and Graham Browne as a new Ambassador of the Society.
Potential impact of swine flu on Alzheimer's Society services
Published: 1 May 2009
As most of you will now be aware the World Health Organisation (WHO) has upgraded the warning level surrounding the outbreak of 'Swine Flu' from 4 to 5.
Novel about Alzheimer's on Orange Prize for Fiction shortlist
Published: 22 April 2009
Samantha Harvey's debut novel, The Wilderness, has been shortlisted for the Orange Prize for Fiction.
New National Dementia Strategy Guidance for Commissioners
Published: 14 April 2009
A new Alzheimer’s Society guide providing vital advice on how to commission services for people with dementia and their carers in line with the National Dementia Strategy has been launched.
Alzheimer's Society Memory campaign boosts dementia diagnosis
Published: 7 April 2009
A campaign encouraging people who are worried about their memory to visit their GPs is changing lives dramatically according to new Alzheimer’s Society research.
Talking Point downtime from Monday 6 April
Published: 3 April 2009
Talking Point, our online community for people affected by dementia, will unfortunately be down from 9.30am Monday 6 April until 9.30am Wednesday 8 April.
Alzheimer's Society comment on deprivation of liberty safeguards
Published: 1 April 2009
Deprivation of liberty safeguards have been introduced into the Mental Capacity Act in order to prevent arbitrary decisions that deprive people of their liberty.
Alzheimer’s Society comment on new Healthcare Commission Report: Equality in Later Life (National study of older people’s mental health services)
Published: 31 March 2009
The Healthcare Commission has published a report into older people’s mental health services.
Alzheimer's Society comment on the Care Quality Commission
Published: 31 March 2009
The Care Quality Commission takes up its responsibilities for the quality of health and social care from April 2009.
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.
Thought provoking new Alzheimer's Society ad highlights dementia impact
Published: 19 March 2009
A new prime time ad raising awareness of the impact of dementia will be aired today for the first time on Channel Five.
New report highlights care home market failing to tackle dementia
Published: 17 March 2009
Care providers are failing to gear their services to cope with the rising numbers of people living with dementia, according to a new report released today (Tuesday, 17 March) by Laing & Buisson.
Person centred dementia care should be standard practice
Published: 12 March 2009
Person-centred dementia care can be taught quickly and should standard practice in residential care homes, according to an article to be published in the April edition of The Lancet Neurology.
Alzheimer's Society comment on current system of charging for care
Published: 4 March 2009
The publication by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation proposes four steps to make things better for people in the short-term while the government works towards long-term changes to how we pay for care.
Alzheimer's Society comment on John Suchet speaking about his wife's dementia
Published: 18 February 2009
'It is deeply distressing that John Suchet has been pushed to the brink in his efforts to deliver the best care for his wife.
Alzheimer's Society involved in campaign to tackle elder abuse in Northern Ireland
Published: 12 February 2009
Uniting Against Elder Abuse is a partnership project which aims to tackle the scandal of elder abuse in Northern Ireland.
Calling all library users
Published: 11 February 2009
Help expand the number of dementia related books in public libraries by asking your local one to make more available.
Government announces landmark strategy to transform dementia care
Published: 3 February 2009
Alzheimer’s Society has welcomed the publication of the first ever National Dementia Strategy for England today (Tuesday 3 February).
Limited helpline services available due to adverse weather conditions
Published: 2 February 2009
Due to adverse weather conditions we are operating a limited service on our helpline.
MPs launch inquiry into dementia workforce
Published: 29 January 2009
MPs and Peers will begin a six month investigation today (Thursday, 29 January 2009) into the dementia care workforce.
New award gives public the chance to thank carers
Published: 20 January 2009
The People’s Award for Dignity in Care has been created to officially thank our health and social care staff and highlight the remarkable work they do.
Alzheimer's drugs decision based on flawed calculations
Published: 15 January 2009
Thousands of people with early stage Alzheimer’s are being denied access to the only drugs for the disease due to fundamental flaws in the way their cost effectiveness has been calculated.
NICE end of life guidelines will not benefit people with dementia
Published: 5 January 2009
Our comment on new guidelines issued by NICE on life-extending treatments for people who are terminally ill and not expected to live more than two years
Government considers private policies for long term care
Published: 2 January 2009
The government is considering private insurance as one option to help improve the system of paying for long term care for older people.
Wallace and Gromit makers join fight against obesity
Published: 2 January 2009
Alzheimer's Society welcomes the new advert by Aardman Animations at the centre of a £75m government marketing campaign to raise awareness of the link between obesity and life-shortening disease.
Terry Pratchett to feature in New Year Honours
Published: 31 December 2008
Author Terry Pratchett will be awarded a knighthood for services to literature in the New Year Honours list. The best-selling fantasy writer has sold almost 60 million books worldwide.
Alzheimer's Society comment on announcement from Health Minister, Phil Hope
Published: 22 December 2008
Alzheimer’s Society is pleased that the government has made a commitment to ensure GPs are trained to recognise the early symptoms of dementia.
Excellence in Dementia Care Award 2009
Published: 16 December 2008
The Queen’s Nursing Institute and the Alzheimer’s Society are offering the Excellence in Dementia Care Award for 2009.
Alzheimer's Society comment on ONS figure that almost a quarter of the UK’s population will be over 65 by 2032
Published: 9 December 2008
People aged 65-plus are expected to make up almost a quarter of the UK population by 2032, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said today.
GPs are failing to keep basic records on dementia
Published: 9 December 2008
The Daily Mail Christmas Appeal for Alzheimer’s Society continues today revealing new statistics that show how thousands of people with dementia are not being diagnosed due to a lack of GP training.
Alzheimer's Society comment on King's Fund call for major overhaul of key government health reform
Published: 20 November 2008
The King's Fund has today published the findings from a two-year audit of one of the government’s central health policy reforms - practice based commissioning.
Alzheimer's Society comments on new Help The Aged report.
Published: 14 November 2008
Three fifths of adults would like to see hospitals and healthcare providers penalised for failing to help older people in pain according to a report released today (Friday 14 November).
Alzheimer's Society welcomes draft regulations on direct payments
Published: 11 November 2008
Alzheimer's Society has welcomed draft regulations for direct payments today (Tuesday, 11 November) as the Department of Health consultation closes.
Patients will be able to pay privately for medicines while still receiving NHS care, ministers confirmed
Published: 5 November 2008
Health Secretary Alan Johnson also pledged to speed up the process of approving new drugs for use on the NHS with the aim of minimising the numbers forced to pay for treatment.
Alzheimer’s Society comments on new Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) report on abuse of adults
Published: 4 November 2008
Neglect or abuse can be minimised by high quality care services, according to a new CSCI report released today (Tuesday 4 November).
Alzheimer's Society comments on the suggestion of a 'silent epidemic' of alcohol related dementia in the UK
Published: 3 November 2008
Two psychiatrists, Dr Susham Gupta and Dr James Warner, discuss the potential impact of increasing alcohol consumption among young and middle-aged people on dementia.
Alzheimer's drugs hope as NICE appeal denied
Published: 29 October 2008
New hope has been offered to thousands of people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s today (29 October) following a landmark decision in the House of Lords.
Our comments on Alan Johnson's speech at ADASS conference
Published: 27 October 2008
Health secretary Alan Johnson today (24 October) said that improving dementia services must be a priority for the NHS and adult social care, at the ADASS national conference.
Right care, Right deal coalition launches new campaign website
Published: 24 October 2008
Right care, Right deal - a coalition of three of the UK’s largest charities – Help the Aged, Counsel and Care and Carers UK – has launched a new campaign website.
Alzheimer's Society comment on CSCI review of eligibility criteria for social care
Published: 22 October 2008
We are calling for the current system of deciding who gets social care to be scrapped following the publication of a new review of the eligibility criteria for social care.
Alzheimer's Society comment on government foresight report: Mental Capital and Wellbeing
Published: 22 October 2008
Proposals aimed at helping society realise its mental potential at every stage of peoples’ lives are contained in a major new report published today by Foresight, the government’s futures think tank.
Alzheimer's Society comment on new report on individual budgets
Published: 21 October 2008
Individual budgets can give people more choice, flexibility and control over their personal care, as well as a better quality of life, according to a pilot scheme evaluation report launched today.
Website downtime
Published: 20 October 2008
Due to a technical fault our website was down for a period of time today.
More support needed for carers
Published: 13 October 2008
Sidney Eric Norton was given a nine-month suspended prison sentence for killing his wife, who had Alzheimer’s disease.
Alzheimer's Society comment on WHO report showing England as leader in mental health
Published: 13 October 2008
While today’s report suggests England is leading the way in mental health, this is not true for all services, especially dementia. Dementia care in England remains in the bottom third of Europe.
Charity calls for national campaign to tackle dementia stigma
Published: 7 October 2008
Half of all UK adults believe dementia is a condition plagued by stigma, double that associated with cancer, according to new Alzheimer's Society research launched by author Terry Pratchett.
Our comment on £30 million funding partnership between Wellcome Trust and Medical Research Council
Published: 2 October 2008
The world is still waiting for a time when dementia can ultimately be defeated.
Pratchett demands political action on dementia
Published: 30 September 2008
Best selling author Terry Pratchett, has called on politicians to increase much needed funding into dementia care and research.
Alzheimer's Society response to Gordon Brown's speech
Published: 25 September 2008
Rarely have we heard Alzheimer’s singled out in such an important speech.
Celebrate UK Older People's Day on 1 October
Published: 22 September 2008
The second UK Older People’s Day on 1 October 2008, under the ‘Full of Life banner’ aims to challenge outdated stereotypes.
Celebrate UK Older People's Day on 1 October
Published: 22 September 2008
The second UK Older People’s Day on 1 October 2008, under the ‘Full of Life banner’ aims to challenge outdated stereotypes.
Alzheimer's Society has today responded to comments made by Baroness Warnock in the media.
Published: 19 September 2008
Speaking about her own views on assisted dying Baroness Warnock made reference to people with dementia as she publicised her latest book.
Political parties have no clear plans for older people
Published: 18 September 2008
72 per cent of people cannot name a political party that has clear policies for older people, research by Alzheimer’s Society found today (Thursday, 18 September).
Alzheimer's Society comment on Mediterranean diet study published in the BMJ
Published: 12 September 2008
A healthy heart means a healthy brain. Therefore it is no coincidence that a Mediterranean diet can help reduce your risk of dementia and many other conditions.
Alzheimer's Society comment on the announcement by Carol Thatcher that Baroness Thatcher has dementia
Published: 26 August 2008
The sad news that Baroness Thatcher has dementia has highlighted a condition that is under recognised and under funded in the UK.
Alzheimer's Society comment on Panorama
Published: 18 August 2008
During the programme Terry Pratchett criticises the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence’s (NICE) decision to limit Alzheimer’s drugs.
Alzheimer's Society condemns putting costs ahead of care
Published: 15 August 2008
According to the HSJ, Care Quality Commission chair Baroness Young has pledged to crack down on NHS organisations that fail to adopt National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence guidance.
Alzheimer's Society comment on Age Concern research into depression in older people
Published: 12 August 2008
It is a huge concern that more than two million older people who show symptoms of depression are not receiving help and support. It is important to seek help if you have symptoms of depression.
Alzheimer’s Society T-shirt top of the charity crop
Published: 6 August 2008
Are you looking for the perfect T-shirt this summer that not only looks good but makes you feel good too?
Our multimedia presence online
Published: 1 August 2008
Did you know that there are so many different ways you can stay in touch with Alzheimer's Society online?
Does being single increase risk of dementia?
Published: 31 July 2008
Alzheimer’s Society comment: Living with a partner in midlife can reduce your risk of dementia, according to new research presented at the International Conference on Alzheimer's Disease.
Communication key to dementia care
Published: 28 July 2008
Alzheimer's Society comment: Adults with Alzheimer's disease who are talked to like children are more resistant to care.
Exercise reduces falls in people with dementia
Published: 28 July 2008
Alzheimer's Society comment: exercise reduces falls in people with dementia, according to new research presented at the International Conference on Alzheimer's Disease.
Comment on research suggesting that people with Alzheimer's disease 'have a greater memory than was previously thought'
Published: 24 July 2008
As dementia progresses communication often becomes more difficult but this does not necessarily mean that a person’s understanding has diminished.
Alzheimer's Society website downtime
Published: 23 July 2008
Please be aware that our website will be down for a short period of time this afternoon for essential maintenance work.
Alzheimer's Society comment on publication of End of Life Strategy
Published: 16 July 2008
One in three people over 65 will die with dementia and too many of them are subjected to an undignified and unnecessarily painful death.
Dementia supplement
Published: 16 July 2008
To mark the end of Dementia Awareness week™, Neil Hunt, chief executive of the Alzheimer's Society, directors and staff have contributed to a supplement to raise awareness of dementia.
'Be head strong' - Dementia Awareness Week™ 2008 England and Wales: 6 to 12 July
Published: 8 July 2008
You can reduce your risk of developing dementia by making simple lifestyle changes.
High blood pressure increases risk of dementia by up to 600%
Published: 8 July 2008
People with high blood pressure are up to 600% more likely to develop dementia according to new research, released by Alzheimer's Society during Dementia Awareness Week (6- 12 July 2008).
Alzheimer's Society launches Worried about your memory? campaign in Northern Ireland
Published: 1 July 2008
By the middle of this century there will be 47,000 people with dementia in Northern Ireland. One in three people over the age of 65 will die with it.
Alzheimer's Society comment on the link between high density lipoprotein and dementia
Published: 1 July 2008
One of the functions of High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) is to transport cholesterol from the arteries back to the liver to be degraded.
Alzheimer's Society on Lord Darzi's next stage review of the NHS
Published: 30 June 2008
Lord Darzi’s ambitious vision could have enormous benefits for people with dementia.
Alzheimer's Society calls for end to Dementia Tax
Published: 26 June 2008
Thousands of people with dementia are being forced to pay large amounts for vital care, which is often poor quality, according to a new report published today by Alzheimer's Society.
Alzheimer's Society comment on the launch of the first National Dementia Strategy in England
Published: 19 June 2008
Thursday 19 June was a landmark day for people with dementia and their carers, as the government recognised dementia as a national priority.
New campaign launched in Wales: Are you Worried about your Memory?
Published: 17 June 2008
Alzheimer’s Society launches a new public information campaign in Wales today to raise awareness of dementia, its symptoms and the importance of getting an early diagnosis.
New booklet to tackle dementia abuse
Published: 13 June 2008
A new booklet to help care workers identify potential abuse in the dementia care environment will be released on World Elder Abuse Day, 15 June 2008.
Alzheimer's Society comment on a new carers strategy
Published: 11 June 2008
The carers strategy is a good start in tackling the large set of problems faced by carers. Greater investment in respite is very good news.
Information about the Worried about your memory campaign
Published: 6 June 2008
Alzheimer’s Society’s 'Worried about your memory?' (WAYM) campaign is an early diagnosis awareness raising campaign aimed at encouraging people concerned about memory problems to seek help.
Alzheimer's Society comment on 'Charging into Poverty?'
Published: 4 June 2008
This report confirms the shocking truth that social care charges are hitting vulnerable older people harder than ever.
Alzheimer's Society comment on CSCI report 'See me, not just the dementia'
Published: 2 June 2008
Neil Hunt, chief executive, Alzheimer's Society says, 'The standard of dementia care highlighted in this report is a national disgrace.
Alzheimer's Society launch Worried About Your Memory? campaign
Published: 29 May 2008
Alzheimer’s Society has launched a new public information campaign to raise awareness of dementia, its symptoms and the importance of getting an early diagnosis.
Alzheimer's Society comment on the government's Dignity campaign
Published: 21 May 2008
People with dementia are entitled to the same dignity and quality of care as any other patient, but the symptoms of this devastating condition can make this a real challenge.
Alzheimer's Society comment on a review of palliative care published in the May issue of Journal of Clinical Nursing
Published: 12 May 2008
One in three people over 65 will die with dementia and too many of them are subjected to an undignified and unnecessarily painful death.
Alzheimer's Society comment on high court ruling that NICE must hand over the executable model used in the Alzheimer's drugs appraisal and pay costs
Published: 9 May 2008
Understanding how NICE reached its decision to deny treatments to thousands of people in the early stages of Alzheimer's has been difficult when NICE has kept their calculations secret.
T-shirts help tackle dementia
Published: 7 May 2008
Luxury fashion house LK Bennett has launched an exclusive range of charity T-shirts featuring designs by the artist William Scott, to support the Alzheimer's Society.
Royalty, celebrities and people with dementia celebrate Alzheimer's Society official office opening
Published: 2 May 2008
HRH Princess Alexandra will meet people with dementia, carers, volunteers and staff from Alzheimer's Society to celebrate the opening of the charity's central office in London.
The Court of Appeal ruled in favour of the drug companies Pfizer and Eisai by finding that NICE should have allowed public access to the health economic model
Published: 1 May 2008
This is a significant result which further undermines the guidance that NICE has issued.
MPs highlight abuse of human rights of people with dementia
Published: 28 April 2008
An influential group of MPs is calling on the Government to stop the dangerous over-prescribing of antipsychotic drugs to people with dementia.
Alzheimer's Society comment on award for ground-breaking dementia documentary
Published: 4 April 2008
We are thrilled to hear Malcolm & Barbara: Love's Farewell has been named best single documentary at the 34th Broadcasting Press Guild Television and Radio Awards.
Alzheimer’s Society comment on Paul Burstow MP's report on the use of antipsychotics in people with dementia
Published: 1 April 2008
The overprescribing of antipsychotics to people with dementia is robbing people of their quality of life and is a serious breach of human rights.
Alzheimer’s Society comment on new research showing that antipsychotic drugs accelerate cognitive deterioration in people with Alzheimer’s disease published in PLoS Medicine Journal
Published: 1 April 2008
This important research demonstrates that antipsychotic drugs not only have no long-term benefit for people with dementia, but also cause significant cognitive deterioration.
Alzheimer’s Society comment on care homes, the Human Rights Act and Department of Health announcement on elder abuse research
Published: 27 March 2008
Two thirds of the country’s care home residents are living with dementia.
Alzheimer's Society comment on Terry Pratchett's donation to Alzheimer's research
Published: 13 March 2008
Terry Pratchett's brave decision to speak publicly about his diagnosis is shining a welcome light on what it is like to live with dementia.
Stars join people with Alzheimer’s disease in the fight against dementia
Published: 11 March 2008
Presenter Ruth Langsford, writer Rosie Boycott and BBC Radio One DJ Richard McCourt are today (Tuesday 11 March) adding their names to Alzheimer’s Society’s Vice-Presidents, Patrons and Ambassadors.
Alzheimer’s Society comment on the use of the Human Rights Act in private care homes
Published: 19 February 2008
More than two thirds of people in care homes are living with dementia and thousands of them and their carers are left exposed by this scandalous legal loophole.
Oscar-nominated actress returns with acclaimed depiction of Alzheimer's disease
Published: 15 February 2008
Actress Julie Christie will return to cinemas today (15th February 2008) with her performance of a woman living with Alzheimer's disease.
MPs back campaign to 'Put Care Right'
Published: 14 February 2008
On 4 February 2008 the Alzheimer's Society held a parliamentary reception at the House of Commons with the aim of raising awareness of our 'Putting Care Right' campaign.
Putting Care Right
Published: 5 February 2008
Poll shows overwhelming support for trained staff in care homes. Ninety seven per cent of people agree well-trained staff are important when it comes to deciding on a good quality care home.
MPs condemn state of dementia services in England
Published: 24 January 2008
Dementia is one of the biggest health and social challenges facing the country: in less than 20 years there will over a million people living with a form of dementia.
Alzheimer's film hits the red carpet
Published: 24 January 2008
Away From Her is a film that brought to the screen the reality of life for over 700,000 people with dementia in the UK and the millions more who care for them.
Alzheimer's Society responds to Health Select Committee inquiry on NICE
Published: 10 January 2008
People in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease should never have been denied drug treatments the Alzheimer's Society said today.
Radio series asks tough questions about social care
Published: 7 January 2008
The reality of social care is exposed in a new radio series starting today (7th January 2008) as a report claims the long-term care system is complex and unfair.
Electronic tagging - enabling or disabling people with dementia?
Published: 27 December 2007
The latest sign of over zealous Big Brother or the future for empowering people with dementia?
Terry Pratchett: I have Alzheimers
Published: 13 December 2007
Comment from the Alzheimer's Society on the news that the author Terry Pratchett has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
Charity condemns costly and dangerous prescribing of anti-psychotic drugs
Published: 3 December 2007
The NHS is wasting as much as 80 million pounds on prescribing unnecessary sedative drug treatments to people with dementia, according to the Alzheimer's Society.
Charity calls for mandatory dementia training for all care home staff
Published: 27 November 2007
People with dementia are being subjected to huge inequalities in standards of residential care, according to a new report from the Alzheimer's Society.
New website goes live
Published: 13 November 2007
The new look Alzheimer's Society website is online and on target to becoming the leading one-stop shop for people living with the condition, their carers and other online users.
Best minds put their heart into tackling dementia
Published: 13 November 2007
Delaying dementia by five years will halve the number of deaths from dementia in the UK, experts have highlighted at the launch of the Alzheimer’s Society’s ‘Be Headstrong’ campaign.
Dementia: the nation’s biggest fear
Published: 13 November 2007
Britons fear developing dementia more than any other health condition in old age yet many people do not realise that simple lifestyle changes may reduce their risk of developing it.
Care guidance a smoke screen: so we’ll help instead
Published: 13 November 2007
The Department of Health launches new guidance today (Tuesday, 26 June 2007) outlining when the NHS should pay for care for thousands of seriously ill people.
Health Minister addresses local Alzheimer’s Society branch
Published: 13 November 2007
Local MP and Health Minister Andy Burnham MP was the keynote speaker last week at the Wigan, Leigh and District branch of the Alzheimer’s Society first annual open meeting.
Judicial Review update
Published: 13 November 2007
An update on the Judicial Review of the NICE decision to restrict access to Alzheimer’s drugs to those in the moderate stage of the disease.
Alzheimer's Society named disability charity of the year
Published: 13 November 2007
The last year has seen a huge effort by our Press Office, Policy and Campaign teams aimed at pushing the issue of dementia up the political agenda.
Judgement date set on Alzheimer’s drugs court challenge
Published: 13 November 2007
A verdict on the first-ever challenge of a decision by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) will be announced next month (Friday August 10).
The National Stroke Strategy: Have your say
Published: 13 November 2007
On 9 July the Government published ‘A new ambition for stroke’, the eagerly awaited consultation document on the National Stroke Strategy for England.
Russell Grant stars at virtual birthday bash
Published: 13 November 2007
Talking Point, the Alzheimer’s Society’s message board and online support group, will be celebrating its fourth anniversary with Britain’s top astrologer Russell Grant on Tuesday 3 April at 3pm.
Investigation into restraint
Published: 13 November 2007
The social care watchdog, Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI), has started an investigation into restraint.
Battle for access to Alzheimer’s drugs reaches courtroom climax
Published: 13 November 2007
A two-year fight against the decision to restrict access to the only drug treatments for Alzheimer’s disease will arrive at the Royal Courts of Justice on Monday.
National audit report echoes call for action on dementia
Published: 13 November 2007
A report by the NAO into dementia released today found that providing earlier diagnosis and better support for people with dementia and their carers could result in cost savings and better care.
MPs and peers join forces to propel dementia to the top of the political agenda
Published: 13 November 2007
MPs and peers who have joined an All Party Parliamentary Group on Dementia will meet for the first time on 18 June and call for the condition to be made a national health and social care priority.
HSA helps Alzheimer’s Society’s helpline on its busiest year!
Published: 13 November 2007
HSA, part of the Simplyhealth group, has helped the Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Helpline with its busiest year on record in 2006!
Mediterranean diet, fruit juice or red wine?
Published: 13 November 2007
Alzheimer’s Society commissions new study into link between diet and dementia.
Balance needed in electronic tagging debate
Published: 13 November 2007
Responding to comments by Science and Technology Minister Malcolm Wicks, the Alzheimer’s Society today welcomed the debate on electronic tagging.
Books to talk about
Published: 13 November 2007
Three innovative new books designed to inspire people with dementia and engage them in conversation are being well received in care homes.
Alzheimer’s Society NICE challenge submitted to high court
Published: 13 November 2007
Serious flaws in the way the NICE reached its controversial decision to restrict access to dementia drugs on the NHS will be submitted to the high court today by the Alzheimer’s Society.
Dementia in Europe
Published: 13 November 2007
More than 20 Alzheimer associations from all over Europe came together for the 17th annual Alzheimer Europe conference in Portugal in May.
Caring for carers in Cardiff
Published: 13 November 2007
Carers in Cardiff are benefiting from a mobile information and support service with a difference thanks to the Society’s Cardiff and the Vale branch.
Birmingham Alzheimer’s Society gives gift of free will
Published: 13 November 2007
The Alzheimer’s Society is joining forces with 8 law firms in Birmingham to offer a will writing service free of charge to local people aged 55 and over.
UK leadership needed to tackle global cost of dementia
Published: 13 November 2007
The Alzheimer’s Society today called for UK leadership in tackling the global rise in dementia, in response to new estimates which put the worldwide cost of dementia at US $315.4 billion per year.
Oscar-winning actress meets people with dementia as Alzheimer’s film hits cinemas
Published: 13 November 2007
People with dementia and their carers have the chance to meet actress Julie Christie as she promotes her latest role, playing a woman with Alzheimer’s.
Blunkett pledges support
Published: 13 November 2007
Former home secretary David Blunkett paid his first visit to the Sheffield branch in his new capacity as patron on 16 May.
Howz that! Alzheimer’s Society seeks cricket stars for TV tournament
Published: 13 November 2007
The Alzheimer’s Society is throwing its weight behind this summer’s hottest cricket tournament the SportsWISE UK20’s competition.
Your chance to put a question about public services and dementia to the Health Secretary, Patricia Hewitt
Published: 13 November 2007
On Thursday 8 February, from 10.45 am for an hour, the Health Secretary will be taking questions from the general public on the future of public services.
The Society seeks a new Chair
Published: 13 November 2007
In September 2007 Dr Nicholas Carey will stand down as Chair of the Alzheimer's Society, having completed the maximum term of office permitted within our Memorandum and Articles of Association.
UK’s first emergency appeal to challenge NICE
Published: 13 November 2007
The Alzheimer’s Society has launched an emergency appeal to help fund the UK’s first high court challenge of the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE).
Malcolm and Barbara: Love’s Farewell
Published: 13 November 2007
The newly extended version of the BAFTA nominated documentary Malcolm and Barbara: a love story will be broadcast on Wednesday 8 August, ITV1, 9 - 10.30.
Daily Mail launches campaign to end restrictions on Alzheimer's drugs
Published: 13 November 2007
The Daily Mail has today joined the campaign to end the restrictions on drugs to treat Alzheimer's disease.
Fix care crisis now
Published: 13 November 2007
Alzheimer's Society response to report by Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) on the care crisis.
Alzheimer's Society to challenge NICE in the High Court
Published: 13 November 2007
Campaigners from the Alzheimer’s Society have announced their intention to challenge the NICE's decision on Alzheimer’s drug treatments in the High Court.
All-Party Parliamentary Group on Dementia meets for first time
Published: 13 November 2007
Members of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Dementia held their first meeting at the House of Commons on 18 June.
Convention for people with dementia, by people with dementia
Published: 13 November 2007
A unique convention that seeks to empower people with dementia by encouraging them to get involved with local and national activities is taking place in Birmingham on Wednesday 24th October.
Society seeks to influences debate at the political party conferences
Published: 13 November 2007
The Alzheimer’s Society will have a strong presence at this year’s political party conferences.
Major new report shows the impact of dementia in the UK
Published: 13 November 2007
Carers and campaigners dressed as Gordon Brown personally deliver a copy of the Dementia UK report to the Treasury.
Vote for better dementia care in Wales
Published: 13 November 2007
It is vital that the voices of people affected by dementia are heard in the Welsh Assembly election debate.
Away from her
Published: 13 November 2007
Based on the short story "The Bear Who Came Over the Mountain" by Alice Munro, this film is the UK premiere of cult indie actress Sarah Polley's astounding directorial debut.
Science, arts and business leaders declare their commitment to tackling dementia
Published: 13 November 2007
Dame Judi Dench and neurologist Professor David Brooks are among prominent supporters joining a landmark programme championing the rights of people with dementia and their carers.
Long term care forgotten again in Budget 2007
Published: 13 November 2007
The gaping hole in today's budget is how, as a country, we are going to meet the huge challenge of caring for our older population.
Alzheimer’s Society comment on Department of Health announcement on national strategy for dementia
Published: 13 November 2007
Comment from Neil Hunt, Chief executive, Alzheimer's Society.
Missing: John Allen
Published: 13 November 2007
Mr Allen, 70, has gone missing from his home in Battle. Mr Allen, who suffers from Alzheimer’s as well as epilepsy, was last seen at 9pm on Wednesday, July 18th.
Ombudsman report proves need for radical overhaul
Published: 13 November 2007
Government policy on fully funded health care is built on straw and a wider debate is needed to fix the system, the Alzheimer's Society said today.
Does your MP support our call for a national strategy on dementia?
Published: 13 November 2007
Last year the Alzheimer's Society challenged a team of researchers to do something that hadn't been done in Britain before - provide the most up to date evaluation of dementia statistics.
Judicial Review of the decision to deny access to Alzheimer’s drugs on the NHS
Published: 13 November 2007
Comment from the Alzheimer’s Society in response to the findings by Justice Linda Dobbs.
Experts predict significant rise in numbers of people with dementia in Northern Ireland
Published: 13 November 2007
Dementia is set to soar in Northern Ireland with experts forecasting a 27% rise over the next ten years.
BBC debate: How do we pay for long term care?
Published: 13 November 2007
On Monday 7th May, Radio 4's You and Yours will dedicate a whole programme to launch its national debate on long term care.
Date set for high court showdown on Alzheimer's drugs
Published: 13 November 2007
The first High Court challenge of a decision by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) will begin on Monday 25 June, a judge announced today.
Midlands Co-op staff pledge to raise £100,000 for the Alzheimer's Society
Published: 13 November 2007
Staff at Midlands Co-operative Society have voted the Alzheimer’s Society as their new Charity of the Year for 2007.
Shedding light on dementia
Published: 13 November 2007
Alzheimer's Society launches new guide on optimising dementia care environment.
About My Grandfather... About My Grandmother...
Published: 13 November 2007
The Alzheimer's Society short film 'About My Grandfather... About My Grandmother' is now available on YouTube.
Continuing confusion not continuing care
Published: 13 November 2007
The Alzheimer's Society today slammed the Department of Health's proposals for a new national framework into fully funded NHS care.
Sir Cliff backs Northern Echo campaign
Published: 13 November 2007
Sir Cliff Richard has welcomed The Northern Echo's backing for the Alzheimer's Society's fight to ensure that dementia patients get the medication they need.
Alzheimer Europe launches new website dedicated to the public health impact of Alzheimer's disease
Published: 13 November 2007
Alzheimer Europe has just launched a new website which is dedicated to raising the awareness of the public health impact of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia in Europe.
Alzheimer's campaigners go global
Published: 13 November 2007
Linda Hayes from Southampton cares for her father who has early onset dementia. To express her anger about restrictions on access to dementia drugs she has posted a video on the website, YouTube.
NICE challenged over fatally flawed decision on Alzheimer’s drugs
Published: 13 November 2007
Eisai and Pfizer, manufacturers of drug treatments for Alzheimer's, have informed NICE that they intend to apply for a judicial review against its decision to restrict access to Alzheimer's drugs.
Alzheimer's Society wins prestigious PR award
Published: 13 November 2007
Mike Baldwin may have left Coronation Street but his dramatic exit to earlier this year is still winning awards.
Home care 'crying out for help' - Alzheimer's Society
Published: 13 November 2007
The Alzheimer's Society has today backed a call by the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) for huge changes to be made to the system of home care.
Alzheimer's storyline wins award for Coronation Street
Published: 13 November 2007
Coronation Street scooped an award for Best Soap Storyline for factory boss Mike Baldwin’s battle with Alzheimer’s disease at the TV Quick Awards 2006, held in London on the 4th September.
87 per cent admit having difficulty remembering every day things
Published: 13 November 2007
87% of people in Britain have difficulty remembering every day things, according to a new survey released today as part of the Alzheimer's Society's Million Memories campaign.
An update on the NICE appeal
Published: 13 November 2007
The Alzheimer's Society have been campaigning against guidance from the NICE which cruelly proposes restricting access to Alzheimer's drugs to people in the moderate stages of the disease.
'From hospital to home: A guide for older people'
Published: 13 November 2007
We'd like to know your views.
Health Secretary: 'We need a national debate on charging for care'
Published: 13 November 2007
Secretary of State for Health Patricia Hewitt told a group of carers on Thursday 24th August that there was an urgent need for a national debate on who pays for care.
Health chiefs to be quizzed on dementia care failings
Published: 11 October 2007
The Public Accounts Committee will grill leading health and social care officials about dementia at a public hearing on Monday 15 October, House of Commons, 4.30pm.
Carer of the year award
Published: 10 September 2007
Carolyne Robinson is the Family Support Worker for the Ryedale and Whitby Branch.
Acoustic single offers support to thousands with dementia
Published: 15 August 2007
An acoustic duo that lists the Doves and ex members of the Smiths amongst its admirers are releasing a heart-rending single about Alzheimer’s disease and donating all profits to the Society.
Doctors and patients should work together to make decisions about treatment says new GMC guidance
Published: 29 May 2007
The General Medical Council (GMC) has today launched a consultation to find out how doctors and patients can best work together to make decisions about treatment.
Patricia Hewitt pledges support for the use of assistive technology to help people with dementia
Published: 9 May 2007
Over 80 people turned out on Friday 27th April to hear Rt Hon Patricia Hewitt, MP for Leicester West and Secretary of State for Health, pledge her support for a unique new website.
Hewitt commits to dementia
Published: 8 February 2007
The Secretary of State for Health, Patricia Hewitt, has pledged to improve the quality of care that people with dementia receive.
NICE under investigation
Published: 2 February 2007
The Health Select Committee announced an inquiry into the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) on Friday (2nd February).
Researchers offer new support for dealing with memory loss
Published: 30 January 2007
People with dementia have the opportunity to confront some of the worst symptoms of the condition, by volunteering for a study into memory loss.
Ivan Lewis MP to address dementia conference
Published: 25 January 2007
The debate on care for the UK’s ageing population reaches a new stage next month as Care Services Minister Ivan Lewis addresses a national conference on 27 February about the rising costs of dementia.
Continuing Care champion wins landmark case
Published: 4 January 2007
In a landmark victory, Mike Pearce, a former Scotland Yard Detective, has won his 5-year battle with Torbay Care Trust to have nursing home fees he paid for his mother’s care returned to him.
The rising cost of dementia – Are we prepared?
Published: 20 December 2006
Groundbreaking research revealing the rising cost of dementia in the UK will be launched at a national conference on 27 February 2007 at Savoy Place, London.
Did your MP support our campaign for access to drugs?
Published: 23 November 2006
In October 2006 MPs tabled an EDM in the House of Commons calling on the government to continue access to dementia drugs in the future.
Dementia debacle continues
Published: 22 November 2006
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) today opened itself up to ridicule as it published two documents on dementia that contradict each other.
Nationwide protests against Alzheimer’s drugs decision
Published: 16 November 2006
The decision to deny life-changing drugs to thousands of people with Alzheimer’s at a saving of just £2.50 a day triggered protest marches across the country on Friday 17th November 2006.
100 years on but there’s not much to celebrate
Published: 3 November 2006
Tomorrow marks a hundred years since the first description of Alzheimer’s disease by Dr Alois Alzheimer.
Celeb supporters speak out against NICE decision
Published: 16 October 2006
Celebrity supporters of the Alzheimer’s Society express outrage at the NICE appeal panel’s rejection of the Alzheimer’s Society’s appeal on access to Alzheimer’s drugs.
Anger as NICE says no to Alzheimer’s appeal
Published: 11 October 2006
The Alzheimer’s Society today expressed its outrage at the NICE appeal panel’s rejection of the Alzheimer’s Society’s appeal on access to Alzheimer’s drugs.
International charities unite for World Alzheimer’s Day
Published: 20 September 2006
A hundred years on from the first description of Alzheimer’s disease, people across the world have united to demand that dementia becomes a global health priority.
Celebrities share memorable moments in a bid to make online history
Published: 19 September 2006
Memorable names from stage and screen have all donated a very personal memory to the Alzheimer’s Society Million Memories campaign.
NICE appeal: Latest news
Published: 20 July 2006
The Society presented its appeal against NICE’s latest guidance on Alzheimer’s drugs at a two-day hearing on 13 and 14 July.
Mental Health Trusts robbed
Published: 20 July 2006
A recent survey by the Sainsbury Centre for Mental Health has shown that money is being siphoned from mental health services to pay for other NHS deficits.
World watches UK medical mayhem
Published: 13 July 2006
Today, the attention of the medical world will be on the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE).
Contact the Society
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enquiries@alzheimers.org.uk
Telephone:
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