World Alzheimer Report 2013 - Journey of Caring: An analysis of long-term care for dementia

Acknowledgements Cover photo, chapter 4 and 6 photos courtesy of Bupa Chapter 1 photo courtesy of Iran Alzheimer Association Chapter 2 photo © Barbara Kinney, used with permission of Alzheimer's Association (US) foreword Dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, is one of the biggest global public health challenges facing our generation. Today, over 35 million people worldwide currently live with the condition and this number is expected to double by 2030 and more than triple by 2050 to 115 million. We believe that Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia must become a national and international public health priority so that countries can develop adequate long-term care systems to look after people living with the condition now, and in the future. Dementia is a degenerative condition with no known cure. Symptoms, such as memory loss, cognitive impairment, difficulty communicating and changes in mood get worse over time. These experiences are distressing for the individual and upsetting for their loved ones. however, people living with dementia can still have a good quality of life throughout the dementia journey, provided the right long-term care plan is in place and being delivered. The two organisations we lead are together the only international federation of Alzheimer associations and global voice on dementia, and the largest international provider of specialist dementia care. Individually, and in partnership, we intend to revolutionise care for people living with dementia and to campaign to ensure these people live well, and that their family and friends are properly supported. our World Alzheimer Report examines the latest global and regional trends of older people needing dementia care, and provides an analysis of long-term care systems around the world. We believe this is an invaluable resource and source of inspiration for anybody developing dementia policy and delivering dementia care around the world. We believe that everyone, everywhere, can and must do their bit to help people with dementia live well throughout the dementia journey. There is enormous power and possibility in families, friends, carers, healthcare professionals, commissioners or purchasers of care, providers, society and governments working together to improve long-term care in their country. We're committed to shaping global dementia care and having people living with dementia lead happier, more fulfilled lives, for as long as they can. That is our vision and intent. Observatory has a tripartite mission: 1 To build upon ADI's 10/66 Dementia Research Group program of population-based and intervention research …