Alzheimer’s Society comment on Department of Health survey into attitudes towards growing older

It also found that 54% worry about losing their mind and memory, 54% worry about illness or infirmary and 39% worry about being lonely. The survey has been commissioned a month before the end of the consultation on the government Green Paper on the future of care services. 

'It comes as no surprise that more than half of people surveyed by the Department of Health are worried about cognitive impairment. It adds weight to Alzheimer's Society's findings that dementia is people's biggest fear in later life. 

'More than two thirds of people in care homes have dementia. They could face enormous bills for poor quality care. Everyone must join the call for a system that is robust enough to tackle the rising dementia challenge and give people a better quality of life.'

Neil Hunt
Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society

Ends

Charging for care - notes to editors

• People with dementia and carers face some of the largest bills for often poor quality care. The majority of their care is classed as 'social care' which is means tested. They also require complex care over a long period of time in comparison to other conditions.
• The King's Fund estimates the cost of dementia in England to the NHS, local authorities and individuals will rise to over £23 billion by 2018. The same report also estimates that by 2027 spend on dementia will make up 75% of mental health costs.

Notes to editors

• To contribute to Alzheimer's Society's charging debate go to debate.
  
• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 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.
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them. 
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Alzheimer's Society needs to raise money to help people live well with dementia today and for research to find a cure for tomorrow. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
  
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk