Dementia rises by 62 per cent

OLDHAM East and Saddleworth MP Debbie Abrahams has highlighted the need to address dementia now after a 62 per cent increase in the condition across the UK over the past seven years.

In 2013-14, 344,000 individuals received a diagnosis — up from 213,000 in 2006-07, when statistics were first collected.

Labour MP Mrs Abrahams is working with The Alzheimer’s Society to create a dementia-friendly Oldham as one of her top-10 priorities.

She said: “Although it can be alarming when we see statistics like this in the media we have known for some time that the number of people diagnosed is lower than the number who actually have dementia and that’s why it’s important we start work to address this issue now.

“But we shouldn’t lose heart. Being diagnosed with dementia can come as a terrible shock but many continue to live fulfilling lives with the support of those around them.

“What’s important is that we work as a community to make Oldham as dementia-friendly as possible as our population grows older.

“By starting this work now we are already helping those with dementia and their carers who can also find life somewhat isolating if we’re not aware of their needs too.”
To read the full story go to the E-Chron digital edition via the website or buy a copy of the Chronicle