Jeremy Hunt announces dementia as one of his four key health priorities

Recognising that for far too long, people with dementia and their carers have not received the care and support they deserve, Mr Hunt is calling for more early diagnosis of dementia, better research and better support for carers.

The Health Secretary also wants to improve standards of care throughout the system, mortality rates for the big killer diseases and the use of technology to revolutionise the NHS.

Alzheimer’s Society comment:

'Earlier this year, David Cameron made dementia a national priority for England. It is hugely encouraging that in just two months as Health Secretary, Jeremy Hunt has also recognised the importance of improving care for the hundreds of thousands of people living with the condition today and moving us towards a cure and better treatments in the future.

'One in three people over 65 will develop dementia. By signing up to become a Dementia Friend, people can help to make a difference where they live too. The small things they can do can make a big difference to people affected by dementia.'

Andrew Chidgey
Director of External Affairs
Alzheimer’s Society

ENDS

The announcement was published in Jeremy Hunt’s blog, which can be found at the following location: conservativehome.blogs.com/platform/2012/11/i-have-now-been-health-secretary-for-just-over-two-months-i-said-when-i-was-appointed-that-it-was-the-biggest-privilege-of.html

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 alzheimers.org.uk
• Alzheimer’s Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0300 222 11 22 or visit alzheimers.org.uk