Supporting people with dementia and their carers

This World Alzheimer's Day (Sunday 21 September), we're highlighting the financial support available to people living with dementia, their families and carers.

Alzheimer's disease affects around 59,000 people in Scotland according to Alzheimer Scotland, with numbers expected to rise in the coming years. But many people may not know that financial help is available.

People living with dementia could be entitled to Adult Disability Payment or Pension Age Disability Payment. Neither payment is means-tested, income and savings don't affect eligibility. You don't need a formal dementia diagnosis – decisions are based on an individual’s needs.

Family, friends and neighbours providing unpaid care for someone getting a disability benefit may also qualify for Carer Support Payment or Young Carer Grant.

Agnes Parry, Health and Social Care Education and Development Lead at Social Security Scotland, explains what this support can cover. She said: "Applications for disability payments should focus on the extra support someone needs with everyday tasks like preparing food, washing, bathing, taking medication, or staying safe at night.

"These payments can help buy specialist equipment too – perhaps an alarm to remind someone their food is ready, or to alert family members if someone has wandered from home."

Getting help with applications

Agnes emphasises that support is available throughout the application process:

"Social Security Scotland can help advise on gathering supporting information from doctors and nurses, and on completing applications to ensure people get the money they're entitled to. There's also a network of charities and support organisations across Scotland offering everything from social activities to respite care."

Find out more

Access shareable resources about financial support for people living with dementia and their carers on our resources pages or find information on local community groups at Alzheimer Scotland - Home