Research points to dementia rise

Brain plaques are a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease

More people are thought to suffer from Alzheimer's in Scotland than previously believed, according to new research.

A Europe-wide study, involving Fife-based geriatrician Dr Emma Reynish, showed an increase in the prevalence of dementia compared to previous studies.

Alzheimer Scotland has now increased its estimate for the number of people with dementia by 6,500 to 69,500.

The charity said the research pointed to a clear need for Scotland-specific population research on dementia.

Dr Reynish said that a lack of data on dementia in those over 85 - particularly women - was the reason for the figures being under-reported.

The research from the EuroCoDe (European Collaboration on Dementia) project, financed by the European Commission and coordinated by Alzheimer Europe, has been used by Alzheimer Scotland to forecast that in 2031 some 127,000 people north of the border will have dementia.

Charity chief executive Henry Simmons said: "Given that the Scottish Government will be developing the first national dementia strategy for Scotland over the next few months, it will be critical to look at these findings and make due preparations."