The Alzheimer's Society has published a new report, The Lived Experiences of Dementia, which highlights the negative impact of dementia on individuals and their carers across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
The report reveals widespread dissatisfaction with the current health and social care systems, significant barriers to diagnosis and support, and a persistent stigma.
Key findings include:
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Only a third (31%) report a positive diagnosis experience, with many finding it stressful (54%) and believing it takes too long (44%), which delays access to needed support (40%).
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Respondents said perceived stigma still remains, with reasons for not seeking professional help including being scared (35%), apprehensive (31%), worried about the impact of diagnosis (29%), shame (18%), or concern about friends/family reactions (21%).
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Over half of respondents believe improvements would come from upskilling professional carers in dementia care (56%), more support for those caring for people with dementia (60%), and a quicker diagnosis process (51%).
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Over half (54%) of people with dementia rely solely on friends or family for support.
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Only three in ten (31%) agree that social care support is easy to access, and nearly half (46%) don't know who to contact for support.
