National dementia attitudes survey publishes latest findings
A new nationwide poll has revealed that many people are still not aware that dementia is the leading cause of death in the UK, according to figures from the Office of National Statistics.
Dementia is a condition caused by diseases that affect the brain, the most common being Alzheimer’s disease. As diseases like Alzheimer’s progress, areas of the brain that control vital functions, such as swallowing and breathing, become damaged. This means that dementia can lead to death in several ways, including by triggering pneumonia, heart problems and serious infections.
Alzheimer’s Research UK commissioned the national Dementia Attitudes Monitor to help understand public attitudes towards dementia, and identify the challenges faced in transforming them.
Dr Ben Underwood (pictured), Research and Development Director at Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust and Assistant Professor in Old Age Psychiatry at the University of Cambridge, leads the Alzheimer’s Research UK East Network and commented on the findings.
Ben said: “Over the last 10 to 15 years, I've noticed that more people understand the word dementia. They’re going to the doctor because they’re worried about it and are more aware of the early signs and symptoms to look out for. However, general expectations around treatments and outcomes for dementia haven’t changed that much.
“But recent advancements in diagnosing and treating dementia are starting to change the game. As we look towards a more hopeful future, it’s important that we continue to raise awareness about the condition. In order to make more progress, we need to get the whole of society involved and encourage everyone to be part of research. The more of a conversation we can have around dementia, the better.”
The Dementia Attitudes Monitor is a comprehensive survey of public perceptions of dementia and research. The results of this biennial survey show that although there have been positive shifts in perceptions since 2018, gaps in awareness still remain.
Other key findings from the survey include:
- Nearly half (49%) of adults without a dementia diagnosis agree with the statement “dementia is the health condition I fear most about getting in the future”
- Just over a third (36%) of people believe it’s possible for people to reduce their risk of developing dementia, yet research suggests up to four in ten dementia cases are linked to factors we may be able to influence.
- Over half of adults (51%) appear to be sceptical of treatments currently available, saying they are not effective (not very or not at all).
- More than half (56%) of respondents without a dementia diagnosis agree that one day, the diseases that cause dementia will be cured.
- Support for dementia research remains strong, with two-thirds (66%) of people saying they would consider getting involved in medical research.
Commenting on the new findings, Samantha Benham-Hermetz, Executive Director of Policy and Communications at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said:
“Alzheimer’s Research UK is committed to building understanding of the condition by shining a light on the impact it has – and the hope that lies in research. Through raising awareness, we hope more people will support our search for a cure so we can end the heartbreak of dementia once and for all.”
Bhavna Patel, an Alzheimer’s Research UK supporter raising awareness about dementia in the South Asian community in Leicester, said:
“I got involved with Alzheimer’s Research UK because I believe it’s important to raise awareness of dementia. I have been raising awareness in my community because too many people shy away from dementia and don’t ask questions. They feel that it’s just part of life, and we all have to put up with it.
“It’s exciting to see how much progress dementia research is making, but there’s still more to do to give the correct information out and improve understanding. If people are informed they will be better placed to support vital research for future generations, bringing us closer to a cure for dementia.”
Anyone who is interested in participating in dementia research and other studies at CPFT can contact the Trust’s Windsor Research Unit on wru@cpft.nhs.uk or call 01223 219531.
Visit www.cpft.nhs.uk/be-part-of-research to find out more.
Anyone with questions about dementia, or getting a diagnosis is encouraged to contact the Alzheimer’s Research UK Dementia Research Infoline on 0300 111 5111 or email infoline@alzheimersresearchuk.org.
