SHOCKING statistics from the Alzheimer’s Society reveal an estimated 1,900-plus residents are living with dementia in Cheshire West and Chester but not receiving the treatment they need.
That’s because their condition has not been medically diagnosed, according to the Alzheimers Society, who are highlighting that national diagnosis rates are at a five-year low following the pandemic.
Weaver Vale MP Mike Amesbury learned an estimated 5,105 people have dementia in Cheshire West when he visited the charity’s stand at the recent Labour Party conference, with roughly 1,942 of them undiagnosed – equating to a 62% diagnosis rate which is below the 66.7% NHS England target.
He said: “I pledged to support Alzheimer’s Society in their drive to make sure everyone with dementia gets the diagnosis they need. One in four people have battled dementia symptoms for over two years before getting a diagnosis.
“If you are worried that you or a loved one may have dementia, you should contact Alzheimer’s Society for advice and support.”
The Alzheimer’s Society is campaigning to ensure everyone living with dementia receives a timely, accurate and helpful diagnosis. And the MP was given a unique insight into the problems often faced by taking part in a ‘racetrack game’ in which the player must avoid barriers including incorrect diagnosis, unclear pathways, and postcode lotteries.
James White, head of public affairs and campaigns at Alzheimer’s Society, said: “We thank Mike Amesbury MP for engaging with us at the Labour Party annual conference and showing his support.
“Asking the same question over and over again is not called getting old, it’s called getting ill. We know getting a dementia diagnosis can be daunting, but we want everyone to be able to
understand and recognise potential dementia symptoms, feel empowered to take the next steps, and come to Alzheimer’s Society for support.
“National diagnosis rates are currently at a five-year low, meaning it’s vital that we do everything we can to get people diagnosed so they can get treatment and support.”
More information about a diagnosis is just a phone call or a click away. Visit alzheimers.org.uk/memoryloss or call Alzheimer’s Society on 0333 150 3456 [0330 094 7400 Welsh-speaking number].
For callers who do not have English as their language of choice, Alzheimer’s Society can arrange a simultaneous language translation service.