Love is forever - Couples speak from the heart about facing dementia together

Jan was just 50 when she started showing symptoms. Fifteen years on and she can no longer speak coherently and her movement is severely restricted. But the time the couple spend together is full of love. Bruce brings her favourite chocolates and cakes and constantly refers to Jan as 'my girl' as he helps feed them to her. Theirs is a love that has seen many highs and lows, but despite dementia, it is a love that endures.

Bruce and Jan are one of eight couples to feature in an inspiring new publication by the Alzheimer's Society entitled 'Love is forever'. Launched in the run-up to Valentine's Day the booklet is a poignant reminder of the capacity people have to love and be loved as they face dementia together.

Neil Hunt, chief executive of the Alzheimer's Society says:

'It is impossible not to be moved by the personal accounts given in 'Love is forever'. Each couple is an inspiration and gives hope to us all that love can survive despite the hurdles that are often placed in its way.

Even though people in the late stages of dementia may seem to have little understanding of speech and may struggle to recognise those around them, this booklet shows their ability to respond to love and affection often remains throughout much of their illness.'

Half of the people with dementia featured in 'Love is forever' were under the age of 65 when they were diagnosed. Although dementia mainly affects older people it is not part of the normal ageing process. While each person is unique and will experience dementia in their own way, symptoms typically include problems with memory, speech, and perceptions.

For a copy of 'Love is forever' as well as case study details and information about dementia please contact the Alzheimer's Society press office.

Notes for editors

• The Alzheimer's Society is the UK's leading care and research charity for people with dementia and their carers.
• The Alzheimer's Society is the Medical Journalists' Association Medical Charity of the Year. The Alzheimer's Society is the first organisation to win this award.
• Over 750,000 people in the UK have dementia. More than half have Alzheimer's disease.
• Dementia affects one in 20 people over the age of 65 and one in five over the age of 80.
• There are 18,500 people in the UK under the age of 65 with dementia.
• For information and advice on Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia call the Alzheimer's Society national helpline on 0845 300 0336.
• Our website address is http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/.