Ministers must act now to tackle dementia crisis

Research shows the strength of feeling among patients, carers and families when it comes to the illness's impact, says Matt Nixson

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Families across Britain are calling for action to tackle the dementia crisis, demanding a formal declaration of a national health emergency as the scale of suffering continues to rise.

Dementia is a devastating reality facing one in two Brits who will either develop the disease or care for someone who does.

Its impact is now so widespread and devastating that 57% of UK adults, and a huge 74% of multi-generational carers, say it must be officially recognised.

With dementia now the leading cause of death in England and Wales - responsible for more than 11% of all deaths in 2023 - the numbers are only heading in one direction. Yet there remains no cure, limited treatments, and inadequate investment in research.