Nearly one million people in the UK are living with dementia, including more than 41,000 in the North East, but its impact stretches far beyond those diagnosed, with millions of families silently carrying the strain.

New research from Alzheimer’s Society, based on a UK-wide survey of more than 2,000 people, reveals the emotional toll many are carrying behind closed doors. Those surveyed described years of exhaustion, anxiety and grief as the charity’s annual fundraiser to support people impacted by dementia – the Forget Me Not Appeal - launches this week.

The new survey found that 63% of people who care for someone with
Alzheimer’s in the North East, say caring has negatively affected their mental health. Across the UK the figure sits at 56%.

Across the UK, more than half (56%) say caring has damaged their mental health, while seven in ten (70%) fear the stress is harming their own health and wellbeing. Many are also suffering in silence, with nearly two-thirds (64%) admitting they hide how they feel from friends and family to avoid being a burden.

The research also reveals widespread sleep deprivation and constant worry being a defining feature of life for many. The emotional toll is profound, with seven in ten (71%) saying they feel they are already grieving the person they once knew – even as they continue to care for them.

Brian Nelson, 72, cares for his wife Joan, 83, at their home in Newcastle upon Tyne. Brian said:
“In 2009 we were told it was Alzheimer's disease. Joan accepted it and said “okay, we’ll just have to get on with it”. My own response was one of despair.”

“There’s a day-to-day strain of keeping the routine right. You have times when you have a cry and what not.

“If I hadn’t got in touch with the Alzheimer’s Society, God knows what would have happened to me. The fact you're sharing this with someone gives you a bit more strength. You realise you’re not the only one in this situation.”

Every day, we see the reality of dementia across the North East. Behind every diagnosis are families navigating emotional, financial and practical pressures that can quickly become overwhelming. Too often people feel they’re facing this alone, which is why local support is so vital. At Alzheimer’s Society, we’re here to make sure no one has to go through dementia without help, guidance and someone to turn to.”

Through local services like Dementia Support Newcastle, Alzheimer’s Society help people affected by dementia feel supported, connected and understood.

Through the Forget Me Not Appeal in June, Alzheimer’s Society is encouraging people in the North East to wear a Forget Me Not badge – a symbol of the ongoing and often unseen weight carried by families affected by dementia. By donating and wearing a badge supporters are helping fund life-changing support and ground-breaking dementia research.
By supporting the appeal, the public can help ensure no one facing dementia has to carry this weight alone. Visit alzheimers.org.uk/forgetmenot to find out more.