Alzheimer’s Society Cymru has welcomed new plans to improve dementia diagnosis treatment and support in Wales, but says the promises must now “translate into ambitious and meaningful change for people living with dementia, their carers and families.”  

New Welsh Government plans for dementia include improving earlier diagnosis and better access to treatment and prevention, alongside a new Dementia Strategy for Wales.

There are also plans to improve social care, including access to and quality of support.  

Alzheimer’s Society Cymru have welcome these commitments but says they must now “lead to meaningful change.”

The charity said that too many people with dementia in Wales are still living without the clarity of a diagnosis.

More than 51,000 people are living with dementia in Wales, but only 57 per cent have been diagnosed, leaving thousands without the answers that can help them access care, treatment and support. 

“Waiting for a diagnosis can mean people miss out on treatments and support that could help them manage their condition and stay independent for longer,” Alzheimer’s Society Cymru said.

“It can also leave people and their families living with uncertainty, making it harder to plan for the future or access the right support. “

In an Alzheimer’s Society Cymru survey, nearly half of carers surveyed said the wait had affected their work, while more than a third said it had made planning for the future harder.

Families reported significant financial pressure using personal savings, cutting everyday spending and reducing working hours.  

Alzheimer’s Society Cymru polling also found that 83 per cent of people surveyed want dementia to be made a national healthcare priority, with 69 per cent believing it is currently overlooked and underfunded.  

Gemma Roberts, National Influencing Manager at Alzheimer's Society Cymru, said:  “We are pleased to see the commitments made by the Welsh Government.

“With a new Dementia Strategy and social care reforms on the horizon, there is ana unique opportunity to deliver the change that people living with dementia in Wales need to see.  

“But promises must now be met by action.

“The new Dementia Strategy is an opportunity for the Welsh Government to deliver meaningful change, backed by the investment and accountability needed to make it happen.

“Wherever you live in Wales, you should have the best possible chance of reducing your risk of dementia and, if you do develop dementia, of living better for longer and independently for as long as possible.  

“Dementia today is where cancer was decades ago, but there is real hope on the horizon. We know that investment, research and political leadership can transform outcomes for major health conditions. Dementia deserves that same focus.” 

“As dementia progresses, people need increasing levels of care and specialised support. We welcome social care reform, but people living with dementia cannot wait. They deserve high quality-care and consistent care that meets their needs.  

“As the Welsh Government moves forward with its plans for a National Care Service, people affected by dementia must be at the heart of those reforms.”