A RECENT report has indicated that the number of people with dementia is expected to double in the next 20 years — which the chairman of the Tavistock Dementia Action Alliance this week said will be a real problem for people in Devon.

The government released a report mapping the extent of dementia across Britain. It showed huge variation — from 39% diagnosis in some areas to 75% in others.

It shows that in Devon there is a below average diagnosis of dementia, yet the county will have a greater average of population over 55 than other parts of the country, and that the prescription of anti-psychotic drugs is higher than in other areas.

Tony Parker, chairman of the Tavistock Dementia Action Alliance, said: 'The variation in waiting time for diagnosis in parts of the country is a significant problem. In Devon this has been highlighted for some time. I know local GPs in Tavistock are working hard to correct this apparent imbalance but it is a difficult disease to diagnose.'

Research shows that an early diagnosis gives the person with dementia and their families the best chance to prepare and plan for the future.

Tony said: 'People can live well with dementia and are able to lead active, fulfilling lives. Unfortunately there is still a stigma associated with the disease and many people try to conceal or hide their condition.'

The interactive map of dementia across Britain is available at the website dementiachallenge.dh.gov.uk/map