22. March 2026

Raising Awareness About Dementia in the UK

Understanding Dementia: It’s About People, Not Just Memory

When we talk about dementia in the UK, we often focus on statistics. But behind the numbers are families navigating a new reality. Dementia doesn't just happen to a person; it happens to their children, partners, and friends. As the saying goes: if you love someone with dementia, you are living with it too.

1. The Human Face of Dementia

Dementia is often misunderstood as a "natural part of ageing" or "just being forgetful." The reality is far more complex.

• It’s Not Just the Elderly: Many are surprised to learn that over 40,000 people in the UK have young-onset dementia. Stories like Amanda Quinn’s, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in her 40s, or Gail’s journey as a career-driven woman, remind us that this can affect anyone at any stage of life.
• Learning from Experts by Experience: To truly understand the day-to-day, we look to those living it. The late Wendy Mitchell’s blog, “Which me am I today?”, and Ken Clasper’s insights into Lewy body dementia offer a window into the resilience and humour required to navigate the "fog."

2. Why Early Diagnosis is a Game Changer

Currently, 1 in 3 people in the UK living with dementia do not have a formal diagnosis. While it can be frightening to seek answers, a diagnosis is the key to unlocking support, treatments, and future planning.

• Spotting the Signs: It’s more than losing keys. Look for changes in mood, difficulty following a conversation, or confusion with familiar tasks.
• The 90-Second Rule: One simple way to support someone is to understand the "90-Second Rule." Damage to the brain means it can take much longer to process information. If you ask a question, wait. Give them up to 90 seconds to respond before repeating yourself.
• Brain Health: We can take steps to reduce our risk. Research shows a strong link between unaddressed hearing loss and dementia. Staying physically active and socially connected are equally vital for long-term brain health.

3. You Are Not Alone: UK Resources

No one should have to navigate dementia in isolation. The UK has incredible organisations ready to help:

• For Specialist Advice: Dementia UK provides Admiral Nurses—specialist nurses who offer one-to-one emotional and practical support for the whole family.
• For Community: The Alzheimer’s Society hosts a Dementia Support Forum where you can connect with others in similar shoes.
• For Practical Rights: If you are a carer, Carers UK offers essential advice on benefits, respite, and your rights in the workplace.

How You Can Help Today

Awareness is the first step toward a Dementia Friendly UK. You can make a difference by:

1. Becoming a Dementia Friend: Spend five minutes learning more through the Alzheimer’s Society initiative.
2. Joining Research: Sign up for Join Dementia Research to help scientists find better treatments and, eventually, a cure.
3. Mark Your Calendar: Join the conversation during Dementia Action Week (each May) to help break the stigma in your local community.