The impact of dementia
Dementia can have a significant impact on individuals, families, and communities. The diseases that cause dementia affect cognitive function, memory, thinking, and behaviour, and can make it difficult for individuals to perform daily activities and maintain their independence. This can lead to a loss of identity and self-worth, as well as feelings of frustration, confusion, and anxiety.
For family members and caregivers, dementia can be challenging to manage, both emotionally and practically. Providing care for a loved one with dementia can be time-consuming, stressful, and costly, and may lead to caregiver burnout and other negative outcomes.
At the community level, dementia can have significant economic impacts. The cost of caring for individuals with dementia can be high, and as the population ages, the prevalence of the condition is expected to increase, placing an even greater burden on healthcare systems and economies worldwide.
In the UK, the estimated cost of dementia in 2021 was £25 billion, a figure that is expected to almost double by 2050.
You can read more about our policy work, including our report, The Impact of Dementia on Women.
Luengo-Fernandez, R. & Landeiro, F. (in preparation). The Economic Burden of Dementia in the UK.