Comedian calls for better care at Christmas

Jo, who is an ambassador for the Society, is launching an appeal as part of the Alzheimer's Society's Putting Care Right campaign to improve the quality of care for people with dementia.

Jo Brand says,

'For thousands of families, dementia will make this Christmas the hardest they've ever had to face.

'I worked with elderly people as a student for about six years. At Christmas the nursing unit I worked at would be open all day and we'd see elderly people who were distressed, at home on their own or people whose families couldn't cope.

'People with dementia are all too often forgotten. This Christmas I'd like to say please remember them by supporting the Alzheimer's Society with a special gift. It will be so appreciated.'

Jo Swinhoe, director of fundraising says,

'1 in 3 older people will end their lives with a form of dementia. It is crucial that people affected by this devastating condition are given the quality care they need and deserve.

'As a charity, the Alzheimer's Society relies on the generosity of the public to provide essential care and advice to people with dementia and their carers.'

You can help put care right by supporting the Alzheimer's Society. Just £12 will help us to give a family information and advice about making the difficult decision about moving in to residential care.

If you would like to donate to the Christmas Appeal please donate online or phone 0845 306 0898.

Notes to editors: 

• 1 in 3 older people will end their lives with a form of dementia 
• 700,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than 20 years nearly a million people will be living with dementia This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051. 1 in 6 people over 80 have dementia. 
• The Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and those who care for them. The Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland 
• As a charity, the Alzheimer's Society depends on the generosity of the public to help it care, research and campaign for people with dementia. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/
• The Alzheimer's Society Dementia Helpline number is 0845 300 0336 or visit http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/

For further information: Press Office 0207 306 0813