10 alarming statistics that reveal the reality of dementia care in the UK
Dementia affects not just those living with the condition, but the families, friends, and carers who support them every day. While awareness of dementia has grown in recent years, new data shows that many people are still struggling to access timely diagnosis, meaningful support, and basic recognition.
A recent report from the Alzheimer’s Society, based on interviews with 3,500 carers across the UK, highlights just how wide the gaps remain. The findings are deeply concerning — and for many families, painfully familiar.
Too many people are managing dementia without support
One of the most alarming findings is that 20% of people affected by dementia have received no health care, social care, or financial support at all. That means one in five people are navigating a complex, progressive condition without any formal help.
Even among those who do receive support, the experience is far from straightforward. Only 29% said the support they accessed was easy to get, suggesting that most families face barriers such as long delays, unclear processes, or repeated assessments before help is put in place.
Perhaps most concerning is that 30% of people living with dementia do not have an official diagnosis. Without a diagnosis, people often cannot access services, benefits, workplace adjustments, or long-term care planning — leaving many to struggle in silence.
Why getting a diagnosis can be so difficult
The diagnosis process itself is a major source of stress for families. The report highlights several factors that make diagnosis harder than it should be:
52% cited long waiting times as a key issue, meaning people are left without answers while symptoms progress.
41% said they had to see multiple healthcare professionals, often repeating the same information again and again.
Beyond practical barriers, stigma still plays a significant role. 40% of respondents said feelings of shame or stigma prevented them from seeking help. This fear of judgement can delay diagnosis further, reducing the chances of early intervention and support.
The often-overlooked experience of carers
Carers are the backbone of dementia support, yet the report shows many feel undervalued and unsupported.
38% said they do not feel respected by social care professionals, despite their intimate knowledge of the person they care for.
70% reported that caring has negatively impacted their lives, affecting employment, finances, physical health, or personal relationships.
30% said their mental health has declined, reflecting the emotional strain of ongoing caregiving.
25% reported feeling socially isolated, often due to lack of time, exhaustion, or reduced understanding from others.
Most alarmingly, 15% of carers said they receive no support at all.
These figures highlight a system that relies heavily on unpaid carers while often failing to protect their wellbeing.
What these statistics tell us
These numbers reveal a clear message: dementia care in the UK is still too hard to access, too slow to diagnose, and too reliant on carers who are not adequately supported.
Dementia is not just a health condition — it is a life-changing experience that requires coordinated medical care, social support, financial guidance, and emotional understanding. When any of these elements are missing, people are left vulnerable.
Addressing these issues means:
Faster, clearer diagnosis pathways
Easier access to support without unnecessary barriers
Reducing stigma so people feel able to ask for help
Recognising carers as essential partners in care
Behind every statistic is a person doing their best in an incredibly difficult situation. These findings are a reminder that improving dementia care is not optional — it is essential.
