With World Alzheimer’s Day having just past, I’d like to tell your readers about the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s and dementia, not only for those living with the condition, but those caring for them too.

I work for the charity Vitalise, which runs the Netley Waterside House respite break centre in Southampton. We provide essential respite breaks for people with disabilities and their carers, including those coping with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

We understand how coping with dementia can leave those affected feeling as if their lives have been turned upside down. This is why we created our special Alzheimer’s Weeks. These unique weeks allow couples coping with Alzheimer’s and dementia to leave the stresses of everyday life behind, giving them the chance to reconnect and share special moments once more.

But it is a sobering thought that as you are reading this, there are carers around the South of England and across the UK who are in desperate need of a break, but simply too afraid to let go of their loved one, even for a few days.

Our own research found that as many as four out of 10 carers have not had a single day off from caring in the past year and as a result, six out of 10 said a lack of respite led them to feelings of depression. This has to change.

So, as we mark World Alzheimer’s Day, I’d like to ask your readers to join us in our call for more support for families coping with Alzheimer’s and dementia and to support our vital work.

For more information on Vitalise Alzheimer’s Weeks and ways you can support our work, visit www.vitalise.org.uk or call 0303 303 0147. Thank you.

Stephanie Stone Vitalise