Concerns over rising toll lost to Alzheimer’s and dementia

THE number of deaths from dementia and Alzheimer’s disease has soared to a new high as it edges closer to becoming Scotland’s biggest killer.

Last year, the two illnesses accounted for 11.1 per cent of all deaths north of the Border. It was the second highest killer, behind only heart disease – and is the deadliest illness for women.

Last year, there were 6,484 deaths from dementia and Alzheimer’s, compared to just 389 in 1984.

Jim Pearson, director of policy and research at Alzheimer Scotland, said: ‘This is once again a stark reminder that dementia is a public health priority at a local, national and global level.

‘Scotland is leading on key research in this area, but overall, we need more research into the causes of dementia, the care of people living with dementia and potential future treatments, as well as seeking to prevent the symptoms of dementia occurring within a person’s lifetime.’

The Scottish Conservatives said the growing death rate comes as the number of dedicated hospital beds for dementia patients has declined.

Age Scotland chief executive Brian Sloan said: ‘Over the next two decades there will be 50 per cent more people living with dementia in Scotland.

‘It is therefore absolutely vital that Scotland gets it right in terms of how to best support and care for those affected.

‘Prevention and education about dementia is also key to helping people become more aware about how to reduce the risk of developing it and living well if they are affected.’