How does dementia impact the UK?
January 2025
Dementia is the progressive cognitive decline which interferes with daily functioning. A person suffering with dementia is not independent in their activities of daily living (ADLs). Though dementia is typically more common in elderly people, it is seen across all demographics. There is an increase in people living with dementia over the years, primarily due to increased life expectancy. Alzheimer’s disease is namely the main cause of dementia however they can be other forms of dementia like vascular dementia and frontotemporal dementia.
Dementia can range in severity from mild to extreme. Some of the symptoms to look out for include:
Poor communication and the inability to express themselves
Impulsive behaviour
Short-term memory loss
Confusion
Hallucinations
Mood changes
If you or anyone you know are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is important that you reach out to your GP.
Many risk factors play a part in how likely someone is to develop dementia. For example, APOE e4 is a gene that allows cholesterol and other fats to be carried into the bloodstream. This can lead to lipid build up that affects cognitive function. This gene therefore leads to a higher chance of Alzheimer’s disease. Genetics are unable to be changed however there are other risk factors that can be dealt with. Obesity, excessive alcohol consumption and smoking are some of the risk factors that can be controlled because they are lifestyle choices. The impact of these can be lessened simply by making changes to health. Research done by University College London academics states that if these risk factors are eliminated, theoretically around 40% of dementia cases would be avoidable. Another factor that can reduce the risk of developing dementia is to build a cognitive reserve. A cognitive reserve reflects an individual’s thinking abilities and ability to maintain them. The higher the reserve, the slower the rate of cognitive decline.
Impact on Black, Asian and Ethnic minorities communities
The All-Parliamentary Group of Dementia in 2013 estimated that around 25,000 people living with dementia come from an ethnic background in the UK. This number is expected to double by 2026 to 50,000 and potentially reach 172,000 by 2051. Statistics from Alzheimer’s journal shows that dementia incidence is 20% higher in Black adults compared to the UK average. Further studies show that risk factors for dementia such as high blood pressure were more prevalent in Black and South Asian populations compared to white people. Despite the higher risks in ethnic minorities, studies on dementia lack enough data that account for people from different ethnic backgrounds and how this may be affecting the risk of developing dementia.
One of the most important aspects of dementia is to be provided with a proper diagnosis and proper care. However, diagnosis inequality is an issue which inevitably leads to lack of proper care and diagnoses are given when the patient reaches later, less treatable stages. Elements that lead to diagnosis inequality must be combated in the health care systems for prevention of dementia. A study in Wales and England stated that 45% of memory assessment respondents thought the biggest barrier in diagnosis for ethnic minorities is language. Language barriers lead to incomplete understanding and poor assessment of patients. Therefore it is important to use interpreters, being clear and concise to avoid any misinterpretation and to ensure the patient is comfortable. The tests used for diagnosis are standardised and don’t tailor to differences socioculturally. Some tests will include general knowledge based on events in the UK but people who hadn’t grown up in the UK will struggle with questions regardless of whether they are struggling with their cognitive function. These tests must be more inclusive towards people of all backgrounds to ensure fair assessment.
Treatments of dementia
Unfortunately, dementia has no cure and isn’t reversible. Despite this, dementia can be controlled and slowed down by the use of medication. Medicines containing acetylcholinesterase inhibitors will combat the symptoms as it keeps the brain working effectively for longer periods. Forms of cognitive stimulation therapy can help improve memory skills and problem-solving abilities of those with mild to moderate dementia. These treatments provide relief for the patient since it reduces impact on daily life. They serve the purpose to ensure the quality of life remains good and they slow the decline of their thinking, understanding, and remembering abilities.
Treatments for the most common cause of dementia- Alzheimer’s- are now available and approved in the form of disease-modifying drugs. However, they are not available through the NHS and cost thousands of pounds annually hence are only accessible to a few.
Linked below are a few sources if you would like to read further on dementia:
https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/dementia-information/dementia-risk/ethnicity-and-dementia-risk/
https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/types-dementia
Dementia is a complex syndrome which is bound to strain an already strained healthcare system significantly. It is crucial to spread awareness of common symptoms and identify people who are at an elevated risk as preventive measures can be taken in improving the health of the mind.