The lonely struggle with dementia

THIS week is Dementia Awareness Week and I would like your readers to spare a thought for the 750,000 people in the UK who are struggling with the relentless, debilitating advance of Alzheimer’s or dementia, as well as those who care for them.

I work for a disability charity called Vitalise. Each year we welcome couples affected by Alzheimer’s or dementia to our UK respite centres for much-needed breaks. We would like to salute the courage and dignity of the unseen army of carers who are struggling day in, day out with the devastating impact of Alzheimer’s or dementia on someone they love. Theirs is a lonely, stressful existence. All they can do is watch and wait, powerless to prevent their loved ones from drifting away.

To commemorate Dementia Awareness Week we have produced a video, in which carers talk candidly about their experiences of living, coping and coming to terms with the devastating effects of dementia. We think everyone should see it. It can be viewed on our website, www.vitalise.org.uk

We support many thousands of disabled people and carers each year through our essential respite breaks, but there are so many more in dire need of help. We don’t take a penny from central government, but rely on the generosity of individual supporters to continue providing our desperately-needed breaks. I would like to ask your readers to please support our vital work. Please call 0303 303 0147 or visit www.vitalise.org.uk

COLIN BROOK,

Vitalise 52 Upper Street

London