The Prime Minister's proposed National Care Service, informed by his personal experience of dementia, represents a significant opportunity to reform a social care system that has failed people with dementia for decades. The piece highlights that approximately 70 per cent of older care home residents live with dementia, yet families are struggling to navigate fragmented NHS and social care systems, whilst many bear ruinous care costs and unpaid carers become exhausted. People with dementia should receive the same compassionate support as those with other major health conditions such as cancer, yet currently lack ambitious diagnostic and follow-up care targets.

Recent scientific advances offer genuine hope for change, with new diagnostic blood tests, treatments that can slow Alzheimer's progression in early stages, and emerging evidence on dementia prevention demonstrating that the condition is no longer an inevitable part of ageing but a disease that can be managed. Dyson argues that if investment and prioritisation are given to dementia prevention, diagnosis and treatment, it would reduce pressure on both the NHS and social care systems whilst improving outcomes for millions. However, the success of the proposed reforms will ultimately be measured by whether people living with dementia receive the care, treatment and support they need.