Overview

• Dementia affects nearly a million people in the UK, with one-third of cases undiagnosed, underscoring the need for greater public awareness and formal diagnosis.
• Newly approved Alzheimer’s treatments, donanemab and lecanemab, show promise in slowing early-stage disease progression but are not yet available on the NHS.
• Experts stress lifestyle changes, including reducing alcohol use, regular exercise, and maintaining social connections, could prevent or delay up to half of dementia cases.
• Lesser-known dementia symptoms, such as sudden dietary changes or vision problems, are being highlighted to encourage earlier detection and support.
• Post-Brexit visa restrictions complicate care for UK expats in the EU, forcing families to navigate 90-day limits and financial barriers to caregiving abroad.