Dementia has now overtaken cancer as the UK’s most feared illness, according to new research – a finding that strongly resonates here in Calderdale, where local families are increasingly affected by the condition.
Almost one in three adults (31%) say dementia is the illness they fear most, rising sharply among family carers. By contrast, fear of cancer has fallen from 30% to 21%.
The study, carried out by the care provider Home Instead, surveyed more than 4,000 people – including 1,600 family carers – and highlights a growing crisis in understanding, diagnosing and supporting dementia. For communities like Halifax, Brighouse and the Upper Valley, where many older people rely on family care, the pressures are very real.
Experts say the results are unsurprising. Dr Timothy Rittman of the University of Cambridge notes that many people still don’t realise dementia is a progressive, terminal illness. Alzheimer’s Research UK says the country is “at a tipping point”, with promising developments such as new drugs and blood tests being trialled, but a need for much greater Government ambition.
Across the UK, almost one million people are living with dementia, and numbers are expected to reach 1.4 million by 2040. Locally, NHS and voluntary groups report rising demand for support, yet many people in Calderdale still struggle to access a diagnosis or affordable care.
The research also shows the huge strain on carers: 43% have left work to look after a loved one. With treatments such as lecanemab and donanemab rejected for NHS use, families are continuing to carry most of the emotional and financial burden.
The message is clear: while a cure remains distant, better care and stronger support for families – nationally and here in Calderdale – are urgently needed.
Are you a carer for someone with dementia. Support is close at hand.
Specialist Dementia care from Home Instead
Together for Wellbeing – carer’s support group