In an admirable display of devotion, four out of five unpaid carers in the South West are shouldering the substantial responsibilities of caring for individuals with dementia. The unwavering dedication of these carers is now brought to the forefront by the Alzheimer’s Society, shedding light on the significant sacrifices they make to provide essential care to their loved ones.
A comprehensive survey conducted by the Alzheimer’s Society reveals the pivotal role that family members and friends play in providing support for those affected by dementia. Remarkably, an overwhelming 95% of carers in the South West identify themselves as primary caregivers, taking on the lion’s share of caregiving duties for their cherished individuals.
Investing an average of 19.3 hours per week, equivalent to four working days, in offering both practical assistance and emotional guidance, these unpaid carers bear a profound impact. However, this devoted commitment often exacts a personal toll, with a fifth of carers expressing a sense of losing their own identity (19%).
Alzheimer’s Society is encouraging people to sign up for a Memory Walk, which sees thousands of people walk for or in memory of, a loved one with dementia. Funds raised will go towards vital campaigning efforts and support services desperately needed by people who have been devastated by dementia, including carers.
An inspiring example of dedication comes from Grant Roberts and his wife Cath, who have embraced the opportunity to volunteer and support the Bristol Memory Walk on Saturday, 2nd September. This act of remembrance is dedicated to Grant’s father, John Roberts, who battled vascular dementia until his passing in May 2022.
In Grant’s words, “Everything in our lives became focused on Dad. It’s like you are on call 24/7 but still trying to do your own things in life. It was hard, harder still because Dad lived 40 minutes away.”
By participating in the Memory Walk, Grant and Cath aim to connect with others who share similar experiences, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity. They firmly believe in the power of shared experiences to alleviate the isolation that often accompanies dementia.
Alzheimer’s Society is also calling on the Government to take clear action to introduce a sustainable funding model, which pools the risk of care costs to provide people living with dementia with easy and timely access to personalised care. This should be supported by an adequately resourced and trained social care workforce.
Alzheimer’s Society is also campaigning for better recognition of unpaid carers, coupled with improved dementia-specific support and breaks.
The survey further exposes the isolation experienced by unpaid carers. A fifth of respondents lamented the loss of friendships (20%) and insufficient social interaction (20%), whilst a quarter of respondents said that even a single regular phone call from family or friends would significantly aid their coping (26%). Worryingly, three in ten respondents felt a lack of avenues for seeking help (29%).
Juggling caring responsibilities with full-time work has become a reality for nearly half (48%) of those surveyed, with one in six (11%) being forced to reduce their working hours. Regrettably, these caring duties have taken a toll on relationships, with over a third (32%) spending less time with their partners and (39%) reporting strain on their relationships.
Alzheimer’s Society Head of Services in the South West Marion Child, said: “There are so many family members and friends providing care around-the-clock to keep their loved ones tethered to the world. This vital care can be incredibly rewarding but comes at a cost – often coping with changes to behaviour and carrying out daily tasks many of us take for granted.
“By signing up for one of our Memory Walks, we can continue to provide help and hope to everyone who has been devastated by dementia. We see thousands of people, all connected by similar experiences, coming together, which is always incredible to witness. From the buzz of the crowd to the hug of a stranger who gets it – whatever you feel on the day, you won’t be alone.”
Award-winning actor Anne-Marie Duff adds her voice to the cause, acknowledging the Alzheimer’s Society as a lifeline during challenging times and a strong advocate for families living with dementia. She shares her personal experience of caring for her brother Eddie, who was diagnosed with dementia at an early age, and praises the unpaid carers for their remarkable compassion and kindness.
“Alzheimer’s Society is a lifeline through some of the hardest and most frightening times and a voice to thousands of families who are living with dementia.
“I know first-hand the impact of caring for a loved one with dementia, after my brother Eddie was diagnosed with dementia in his early 40s. Unpaid carers exemplify what it means to be kind and compassionate – quite simply, unpaid carers are heroes.”
With one in ten individuals in the population providing unpaid care and the likelihood of one in three people born today developing dementia during their lifetime, the Alzheimer’s Society underscores the urgent need for action. By participating in the Memory Walk, individuals can contribute to the Society’s ongoing efforts to provide comprehensive support services, fund vital research, and advocate for change to prioritise dementia on the political agenda.
The Memory Walk, held across 24 locations in September and October, offers a meaningful opportunity to make a tangible difference. To join the Alzheimer’s Society in this crucial endeavor, visit memorywalk.org.uk and be a part of the movement to create a brighter future for those affected by dementia.
