JSNA > Ageing Well


Dementia is a progressive neurological condition that affects the brain, leading to a decline in cognitive abilities and impacting a person’s daily functioning and quality of life. Dementia is not a specific disease itself but rather a term used to describe a set of symptoms that significantly impact a person’s daily life and functioning.  Symptoms can include memory loss, difficulties with language and communication, impaired judgment, and changes in behaviour and personality.  Dementia is more common in older age groups and the prevalence increases with advancing age but it does effect younger people too.

Dementia presents a significant and urgent challenge to health and social care in County Durham, in terms of both numbers of people affected and the costs associated with it. Caring for someone with dementia can be challenging and demanding, and carers play a vital role in providing support and ensuring the well-being of their loved ones.

Data about dementia in County Durham can be found in our JSNAA Report on Long-term conditions.

Assessments and audits

In 2024 a Dementia Health Needs and Assessment (HNAA) was carried out by Durham County Council’s Public Health team. A summary is available here:

Dementia HNAA Summary

The evidence base

NICE Guidance 97: Dementia: assessment, management and support for people living with dementia and their carers

NICE Guidance 16: Dementia, disability and frailty in later life – mid-life approaches to delay or prevent onset

Other relevant links