A heartbreaking survey has revealed that nearly half of people caring for someone with dementia say they have reached 'breaking point'. The poll, conducted by the Alzheimer's Society, highlights the immense strain faced by friends and family of the almost one million people living with the condition in the UK.
Emotional and physical toll
The survey of 1,234 dementia carers found that 43 per cent have reached breaking point and felt unable to cope, with one in ten experiencing this more than once. More than half (56 per cent) say caring has damaged their mental health, while seven in ten (70 per cent) fear the stress is harming their own health and wellbeing.
Many carers are suffering in silence, with nearly two-thirds (64 per cent) admitting they hide how they feel from friends and family to avoid being a burden. Meanwhile, only 4 per cent believe families are adequately supported by the NHS.
Grief and sleep deprivation
The emotional toll is profound, with seven in ten (71 per cent) saying they feel they are already grieving the person they once knew, even as they continue to care for them. The survey also reveals widespread sleep deprivation and constant worry as defining features of life for many carers.
Michelle Dyson, chief executive of Alzheimer's Society, said: 'Dementia is one of the greatest challenges facing our society today, but the real tragedy is how many people face it alone. Behind every diagnosis are families facing emotional, financial and practical pressures that can feel overwhelming.'
'Many turn to Alzheimer's Society as a vital lifeline of support. Last year alone, we supported tens of thousands of people through our support line, with over half of those calls coming from carers, friends and family. We are proud to be there for people when they need us most, but families should not have to bear this overwhelming weight.'
Personal story
Catherine Courtney-Diggins, 38, juggles life as a mum to an 18-month-old girl and visiting her dad Tom, who has dementia and is now in a care home. She said: 'Dementia has touched every part of our lives. We're constantly juggling work, childcare and visiting dad in his care home, while also supporting my mum, who carried so much of the caring on her own for so long.'
'It's heartbreaking to watch - especially for the children. The older ones remember the man he used to be, and the younger ones don't understand why their grandad can't talk to them or recognise them anymore. But even now, there are moments - a smile, holding his hand - that mean everything to us.'
'Alzheimer's Society has been a lifeline for our family. Their support has helped us feel less alone and better equipped to cope with the emotional weight of what we're going through. No family should have to face dementia without that kind of help.'
The Daily Mail and Alzheimer's Society have partnered in a drive to beat dementia, which claims 76,000 lives each year and is the UK's biggest killer. The Defeating Dementia campaign aims to raise awareness of the disease, to increase early diagnosis, boost research and improve care.
