The number of people living with dementia in Bedford Borough is expected to rise significantly over the coming decades, according to a new council-commissioned health needs assessment.
George Roberts, public health registrar, gave the warning at the Health and Wellbeing Board (Wednesday, 24 September).
“We know that there’s 1,500 people who are recorded to have dementia, but the likely true figure is closer to 2,500,” said Roberts.
“At least three in ten people living with dementia are not formally diagnosed. In either case, in the next 20 years, that’s projected to increase by around 1,500.”
Mr Roberts added the strain on primary care could be “significant”.
Consultations with carers and people living with dementia found that many experienced difficulties navigating support services.
Some said they felt “stuck between services” or that professionals were not talking to each other. Providers acknowledged they did not always have the time or knowledge to direct people to the right support.
Stakeholders also identified gaps in the treatment pathway, including transitions between services and access to new therapies and clinical trials.
The assessment highlighted the risk of hidden populations being overlooked, such as people living alone, the homeless, traveller communities and those with learning disabilities.
As Mr Roberts explained, “There are people who might live alone and may have difficulty accessing services if they don’t have someone to witness the onset of symptoms.
“The homeless population is an example that has a high health need and will also experience dementia.”
The Board agreed on the following four recommendations:
- Provide a single point of contact to help coordinate care
- Make dementia services accessible to all communities
- Strengthen collaboration between dementia services
- Promote primary prevention, addressing risk factors for dementia and other health behaviours
According to the report, dementia is the leading underlying cause of death in England and Wales, and local mortality rates in Bedford are now in line with the national average.
If you are worried about dementia or caring for someone with the condition, support and advice are available from the Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Connect support line on 0333 150 3456.
By John Guinn
Local Democracy Reporter
