Alzheimer's Society response to man with Alzheimer's being handcuffed in ambulance

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'People with dementia can sometimes exhibit extreme agitation particularly in times of stress. It is vital that all staff who come into contact with people with dementia are given the skills and training to be able to spot the reasons behind these behaviours so they can address them and hopefully reduce them. Heavy handed approaches such as handcuffing should only ever be a last resort.'

'Alzheimer's Society is working with the Association of Chief Police Officers and a range of other organisations as part of the Prime Minister's Challenge on Dementia to look at how to make communities more dementia friendly. From Preston to Plymouth, from the boardroom to bus drivers, we all have a role to play in ensuring people with dementia are supported to live a good quality life.'

Andrew Chidgey
Director of External Affairs
Alzheimer's Society

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Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 800,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than 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