Care services not prepared for increases of people with dementia

The report notes a growing demand for nursing care within social care settings. This is due to the increasing number of people with complex or multiple illnesses, and the rising numbers of older people with dementia.

The report also suggests that pressures on care services are increasing the risks of poor or unsafe care for people who are less able to speak up for themselves and those, who are more vulnerable including people with dementia. Across both health and social care, CQC inspectors found organisations who are failing to manage the impact of these challenges effectively, and delivering care that is task-based, not person-centred.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'800,000 people are living with dementia in the UK. By 2021 this will rise to over one million. With many of these people requiring care at some stage of their life, it is extremely disappointing that many care services are so far failing to meet their needs. We have known for a long time that the number of people with dementia is increasing so there is no excuse for not taking action.

'Good services show us that quality care for people with dementia is possible. People with the condition deserve nothing less than the best care. Let this report be a wake up call to those who aren’t meeting the requirements.'

Andrew Chidgey
Director of External Affairs
Alzheimer’s Society

- Ends -

Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will develop 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 has a plan to deal with dementia. Help us support people to live well today and fight for a world without dementia tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting www.alzheimers.org.uk
  
• Alzheimer’s Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0300 222 11 22 or visit www.alzheimers.org.uk