September marks World Alzheimer’s Month, an international campaign raising awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and the wider impact of dementia.
Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, affecting thinking, memory and behaviour. In England 751, 551 people over the age of 65 were estimated to have dementia in March 2026. By 2040, this figure is expected to rise to 1.4 million.
Dementia in South London
Across South London, 69.9% of the estimated population living with dementia had received a diagnosis by February 2025, exceeding the NHS target of 66.7%
The dementia diagnosis rate measures the percentage of the estimated population living with diagnosis who have been identified through primary care.
However, diagnosis rates vary between boroughs. Greenwich did not meet the NHS target during 2024/25, or during the previous year. In comparison, Bexley’s dementia diagnosis rate reached 72%.
The number of people living with dementia also varies across South London. In Vauxhall and Camberwell it is estimated that 657 people are living with dementia while in Mitcham and Morden it is estimated that 1,100 people are living with dementia.
Who is affected by dementia?
Dementia can affect people from all backgrounds, although some groups may face different levels of risk.
Approximtately 65% of the 982,000 people living with dementia in the UK are women.
There are also inequalities in dementia diagnosis. People from minority ethnic groups with dementia appear less likely to receive a diagnosis, with stigma and barriers within the healthcare system suggested as possible factors.
Alzheimer’s UK Research has also found that Black and South Asian people are more likely to be diagnosed with dementia around three years earlier than White people and are also more likely to die earlier from the condition.
What are the signs of Alzheimer’s?
Symptoms and signs of Alzheimer’s develop gradually over many years, often starting with minor memory problems.
- Confusion, disorientation and getting lost in familiar places
- Difficulty planning or making decisions
- Problems with speech and language
- Problems moving around without assistance or performing self-care tasks
Anyone concerned about persistent changes in their memory or thinking should speak to their GP.
Where can people get support?
People living with dementia, as well as their families and carers, can access support through their GP, local memory services and organisations such as Alzheimer’s Society.
World Alzheimer’s Month aims to increase understanding of dementia and encourage greater awareness of the experiences of people living with the condition.
