The four faces of dementia

The four stories

Read the story of the person with dementia

Read the carer’s story

Read the experiences of the specialist nurse

Read about the advances in dementia research from the scientist

What is dementia?

‘Dementia’ means a group of different brain disorders that have in common a loss of brain function. Symptoms can include confusion and problems with memory and communication, making it harder to do things we have often taken for granted. The disease is usually progressive and eventually severe.

The older we get, the more we run the risk of developing dementia, but it is not a normal or inevitable part of ageing. Most of us will never develop the disease.

There are more than 100 different forms of dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form – it accounts for about 2 out of 3 cases – followed by vascular dementia, accounting for roughly 1 in 6 cases.

The cost of caring for and supporting people living with dementia already amounts to £23bn a year, including an estimated £700 million in lost earnings by family or other unpaid carers.

Dementia and Age UK

At Age UK, starting with information and advice, we will consider practical ways in which our services can be adapted to ensure that they meet the needs of people living with dementia and carers.

We know that, like everyone else, people with dementia want to be able to do the things that are important to them in life – and to have fun.  Many local Age UKs offer services and support specifically for people with dementia and carers, as well as opportunities for all older people to share common interests.

Find your nearest local Age UK

Find more information about dementia and care

Read Age UK's information and advice about dementia

Get help and support from Dementia UK

For more about Alzheimer's Disease contact Alzheimer's UK