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Almost two-thirds worried about the cost of dementia care

12 September 2023

The Social Care Protection Gap

 

Research from VitalityLife reveals the worrying gap between the implications of dementia care and Brits’ understanding of dementia. The Vitality survey of 2,000 people highlighted that many underestimate the care needed to support someone with dementia. 

The results showcased that while 60% of Brits are worried about the cost of care if they get diagnosed with dementia, almost half (46%) do not know the average cost of caring for someone with dementia at all, which is an estimated £100,000.*

A key part of caring for someone is improving their home environment yet a fifth (19%) do not know any ways their home could be improved. 17% are aware that putting bird feeders and bug boxes in the outside space to attract wildlife, removing mirrors or shiny objects (13%) and avoiding bold patterns and stripes (15%) can help.

Currently, many people with dementia must fund the complete cost of their care**, which means those without serious illness cover face the daunting prospect of spending everything they have on their care. 

Justin Taurog, Managing Director VitalityLife commented, “Our research shows that there is a gap in people’s understanding about dementia care, with few really grasping the costs needed for someone living with the disease.  Dementia and frail care cover is now included automatically within VitalityLife’s Serious Illness Cover, which is completely unique in the market. We hope this gives people some peace of mind when it comes to protecting against a life-changing event such as dementia.”

Vitality’s Serious Illness Cover provides a tax-free payout if someone is affected by a serious illness. Providing comprehensive cover for a range of illnesses, Dementia and frail care is now automatically included to ensure members stay protected into later life and help to cover rising care costs.  
 
*Alzheimer’s Society 2018
** Alzheimer’s Society – How Much Does Dementia Care Cost 
 

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