The number of people with dementia in the Black Country will increase by just over a quarter in the next decade, warns a report commissioned by Alzheimer’s Society.

The research predicts that, as our population ages, a higher proportion of people with dementia will have higher care needs for longer, driving up the average amount spent on care.

In Dudley in 2019, there are currently 4,952 people living with dementia and this will increase to 6,419 by 2030. In Sandwell the current figure is 4,040 and this will increase to 5,051 over the next decade.

More than 60% a year of social care costs in England will fall on people with dementia and their families. Previous research by Alzheimer’s Society has shown that someone with dementia will typically have to spend £100,000 on their care. Many are forced to sell their homes to pay for it. Janice Le Tellier, Alzheimer’s Society Area Manager for the Midlands Central, said:

“Dementia is heart-breaking for families. It’s not right that those going through it have to battle to get the care they need on top of battling the disease. Families affected by dementia are already at breaking point and, with costs set to treble in the next two decades, how on earth will they cope?  

“The cost of dementia care is too much for an individual to bear. It should be spread between us – just like schools, the NHS and other public services. Every party must go into this election with a solid plan to radically reform dementia care. Families in crisis need action, and they need it now.”  

Alzheimer’s Society exists to support anyone affected by dementia, whatever they are going through. You can get advice by calling Dementia Connect on 0333 150 3456 or emailing dementia.connect@alzheimers.org.uk.