Alzheimer's Society comment on OECD report - long-term care spending

The report suggested this was driven by ageing populations, and suggested governments needed to make long-term care policies more affordable as well as providing better support for family carers.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'This report reinforces what we have been saying for a long time - large and increasing numbers of families are being forced to spend their life savings on care. 750,000 people in the UK are living with dementia, yet these people are some of the hardest hit by care costs. People have no choice but to pay huge amounts for poor quality care, resulting in a 'dementia tax'.'

'In just 10 years, a million people will be living with dementia. We must ensure that people with dementia get the high quality care which is so essential for their needs at a fair price. Systems of paying for care must not penalise people with dementia or carers.'

Andrew Chidgey
Head of Policy and Public Affairs
Alzheimer's Society

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. In just ten years 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