Currently, more than 982,000 people in the UK are living with dementia, and this number is predicted to rise to 1.4 million by 2040. These figures reflect a growing reality for individuals, families and communities across the country.
This is why, at Flourish, we are supporting Race Against Dementia Day. It highlights the importance of achieving a breakthrough for a cure, while also improving understanding and care for people living with dementia today.
What Is Race Against Dementia?
Race Against Dementia is a UK charity dedicated to accelerating progress towards effective treatments for dementia. Its focus is on backing ambitious research and removing the barriers that slow scientific breakthroughs. It brings together researchers, innovators and supporters who share a determination to move faster and ultimately win the race against dementia.
Race Against Dementia Day reminds us that while dementia is complex, progress is possible and urgency matters.
Understanding Dementia and Its Impact
Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of progressive conditions that affect the brain. It can impact memory, communication, reasoning, perception and behaviour, often changing over time. Although Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form, no two experiences of dementia are the same.
For individuals, dementia can bring confusion, anxiety and a gradual loss of independence. For families, it can be emotionally demanding and require ongoing adjustment and support. And, for care professionals, it presents complex and evolving needs that require skill, patience and empathy.
Why Understanding Changes Care
When dementia is not well understood, care can unintentionally become task-focused. Behaviours may be misinterpreted and distress can escalate. This can be difficult for both the person receiving care and the person providing it.
Understanding changes this. When care professionals have a clearer understanding of how dementia affects the brain and behaviour, responses become calmer, more compassionate and more considered.
Caring Better, Together
Supporting the care workforce is a vital part of improving life for people living with dementia, and learning plays an important role in that. When training is practical, accessible and grounded in real care scenarios, it supports understanding without adding pressure. It helps carers feel confident and valued, which in turn supports safer, more compassionate care.
At Flourish, we believe that understanding sits at the heart of good care. We are passionate about supporting care professionals with learning that reflects the realities of dementia and the people affected by it. On Race Against Dementia Day, we are proud to recognise the dedication, compassion and skill of those caring for people living with dementia every day.
As part of our adult social care learning offer, we provide dementia awareness training designed to build understanding, confidence and person-centred approaches to care. While the race for treatments continues, caring well today matters.
Dementia Awareness course
In this dementia training we look at how you can support people to live well with dementia, including how to provide support in the later stages.
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