Alzheimer’s Society comment on House of Commons dementia debate

Shadow health minister Stephen O'Brien said a Conservative government would make dementia services a 'priority'.

He was speaking weeks after the National Audit Office found that as much as £8.2 billion is being spent inefficiently on dementia care every year.

Alzheimer's Society comment,

'We welcome the support for the National Dementia Strategy from all political parties and their commitment to implement its recommendations. But we need less talk and more action for the millions of families battling daily with this devastating condition. All political parties must make commitments in their election manifestos to develop a care system that guarantees people with dementia and their carers good quality care at a fair price as well as giving greater investment to dementia research.'

Andrew Ketteringham
Director of External Affairs

Ends

• 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