Nearly one million people in the UK are living with dementia, including more than 106,000 in the North West, 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.

In the North West, the impact of dementia is already being widely felt, with nearly two-thirds of people (64%) saying it affects their daily life. Around 65% report that supporting someone has had a negative impact on their mental health, while many are also dealing with the physical toll of caring, including sleep loss — with around one in ten experiencing severe weekly disruption.

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.

Every day, we see the reality of dementia across the North West. 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 our trained Dementia Advisors, community support groups and memory cafes, 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 West 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.