Christmas can be a lonely time for families touched by dementia

For families in South Devon Christmas has changed forever - almost a third of people with dementia are unable to visit loved ones and 21 per cent are no longer able to recognise family members...

Christmas will never be the same for 65 per cent of current carers who say dementia has 'robbed' them of a carefree and joyful festive season, a new survey from Alzheimer’s Society reveals that 14,910 people in Devon are living with dementia.
The results from the survey lay bare the devastation caused by dementia, highlighting the emotional and physical impact of the terminal disease on families at Christmas. The charity is releasing these figures as it launches its Christmas Appeal.
It found that since 2022, one third of people with dementia are cut off and unable to visit loved ones, while one in four, 24 per cent, of people with dementia are no longer able to take part in any Christmas activities and a quarter no longer recognise family or friends.
Tragically, one in five (21 per cent) are unable to hold a conversation with loved ones.
The charity also reports that caring for a loved one with dementia at Christmas is taking its toll on carers. Of the dementia carers surveyed in the South West, 57 per cent said they felt more emotionally drained and 35 per cent felt more physically exhausted. Worryingly, 13 per cent said they were at ‘breaking point’.
Derek Dodd, Regional Manager for Alzheimer’s Society said: “One in three people born today will develop dementia in their lifetime. Christmas should be joyful but for many of the 14,910 people living with dementia in Devon and their families, their Christmases have changed forever. Too many people are facing dementia alone. We want everyone affected by dementia to know that whoever you are, whatever you’re going through, you can turn to Alzheimer’s Society for help.
“Almost a third of carers (32 per cent) we spoke to say the greatest Christmas gift they could receive would be talking to someone who understands. Our Dementia Advisers are just a call or a click away. They can give someone the guidance, advice, and empathy they desperately need. If you’re able to, please help us be there for everyone living with dementia this Christmas whatever the day brings, by donating to our Christmas Appeal.”
Alzheimer's Society vows to help end the devastation caused by dementia. For support or to donate to the '12 Days of Christmas' appeal , please visit www.alzheimers.org.uk/Christmas