Alzheimer's Society comment on Which? report on care homes

Three actors were sent to live in four randomly chosen care homes in early 2011 and recorded their experiences. They found cases of poor living conditions and nutrition, a lack of stimulation and activities for residents and people being treated in an undignified way. However, good care was possible - one of the care homes visited had a good range of fresh local food and home made cakes on offer.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'These shocking findings support Alzheimer's Society research*, which has uncovered large variations in quality of care in care homes. Two thirds of care home residents have dementia. Alzheimer's Society research has found that people with dementia in care homes spend on average just 2 minutes every 6 hours interacting with others.'

'Caring for someone with dementia isn't just about keeping them clean, warm and fed - they deserve a good quality of life, to be treated with dignity and as an individual. As the Which? report shows, good care can make all the difference. It is essential that dementia training becomes a mandatory requirement for all care home staff. We are already working with a number of care homes to improve standards and would urge other care homes to get in touch with us to work together.'

Jeremy Hughes
Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society

- Ends -

* Research reference: 'Home from Home' report on care homes, part of Alzheimer's Society's 'Putting Care Right' campaign, 2007.

Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. By 2021 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 supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. 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