With the start of a new year comes a record-breaking number of calls to the UK’s leading dementia charity’s support line, in the wake of the festivities.
Alzheimer’s Society’s expert dementia advisers have received hundreds of calls since the start of January, with many people seeking advice on signs and symptoms of dementia, getting a diagnosis and needing additional respite and care home support.
The charity has revealed that the first weekend of the year exceeded the number of calls received to that of the same weekend over the last three years, while the first Monday (6 January), saw a record-breaking 443 calls, the highest amount on a single day throughout January so far, since the dementia support line launched in 2019.
It comes after many families have spent quality time together in recent weeks. For some, it may have been the first time they noticed significant changes which could be the signs of dementia in loved ones and for others, care needs and responsibilities may have increased. Symptoms include memory loss, confusion, mood changes and problems with language and communication.
In the last two years, the charity has seen calls to its support line through January grow by 15%, contributed to by ongoing activity to raise awareness of the importance of an early and accurate diagnosis and dispelling the common myth that dementia is just part of getting old.
The increase in calls shows the devastating reality of the impact of dementia for around one million people living with the condition in the UK. Alzheimer’s Society’s expert dementia advisers can offer practical and emotional support and advice on a variety of topics including getting diagnosed, caring strategies and how to access social care as well as signposting to other organisations who can provide legal and financial advice, for things such as benefits and grants.
Nearly 1,700 people affected by dementia responded to a survey1 about their access to Alzheimer’s Society’s support services, with 96% saying they were more informed, 92% felt more supported to manage and 78% having more confidence to make decisions. This shows the real impact supporting the charity’s Christmas Appeal can have on people living with dementia.
Kerry Hine, 53, from Essex, lost her husband, Charles, to dementia on New Year’s Day 2024. She said: “In the years leading up to Charles’ diagnosis, we had no real understanding of the condition. At the time all we knew was that Charles’ was becoming increasingly and uncharacteristically different but we didn’t know why. Charles was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia in September 2020 and while it came as a relief finally having answers, we still didn’t really know much about the condition or what the future would hold.
“It’s why in 2021 I turned to Alzheimer’s Society. I began attending weekly groups and spoke regularly to a dementia adviser who was incredibly brilliant and supportive.
“Their website helped me to navigate such a difficult time too. It had so much information and really helped to better my understanding of Charles’ condition. I want to urge anyone with dementia concerns in themselves or a loved one to reach out to Alzheimer’s Society, and their GP, for support. It may be frightening but their support services are a lifeline and will make a lasting difference when it’s needed most”.
Kate Lee, Chief Executive Officer for Alzheimer’s Society said:
“Christmas can be challenging in many ways, but particularly for those affected by dementia so more support and guidance is needed in the wake of the festivities. We help people make the most of life with dementia, supporting them through some of the hardest and most frightening times.
“From a listening ear on the phone to a visit in person and opportunities to connect with others, we’ll be there for you again and again and again, no matter what.
“Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer with the realities often played out behind closed doors. With one in three people born today developing dementia, it has never been more crucial to shine a light on the condition and bring it out into the open.”
Help Alzheimer’s Society provide a little light to people affected by dementia this year. Every £15 can help a dementia adviser to take an hour of calls from families in crisis and doubling this to £30 can help provide two hours of one-to-one support in someone’s home.
Alzheimer’s Society is here for anyone affected by dementia, if you need support, call 0333 150 3456. To donate, share your story or for more information, visit alzheimers.org.uk
